Study on HIV and Dental Tools

The article “Study Finds HIV in Unsterilized Dental Tools” (Nov. 21) is one that does not serve in the best interest of the public who receive regular dental care.

Infection control guidelines from the California Dental Assn., as well as other agencies, have recommended for some time that all instruments, including dental hand pieces, be autoclaved (heat sterilization) to ensure patient safety and follow infection control techniques. Organized dentistry has set the pace by recommending these steps even before they were part of guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.

One must take note that the viruses were found only on dental instruments that were not autoclaved, but rather treated with cold disinfectants. As an added precaution, dental offices widely use disposable equipment to protect against cross-infection.

Articles of this type should be used to inform patients what to expect when they visit their dentist; to put false fears in their minds serves no real purpose.

LEWIS J. TURCHI DDS

Immediate Past President

California Dental Assn.

Rolling Hills Estates