STERILIZATION AND CROSS-INFECTION CONTROL The Cosmodent team is very aware of the need for scrupulous cross infection control and sterilization. We adhere to infection control procedures known as universal precautions and use the same infection control measures for each patient. We would be happy to discuss these procedures with you at Cosmodent. Masks and gloves are worn at all times when treating patients New gloves are worn for each patient, gloves are not washed.   All work surfaces and handles that the dentist touches are wiped after each patient with alcohol glutaraldehyde wipe. All metal instruments are washed, soaked in a cold disinfection solution, rewashed with an enzyme cleaner, and then sterilized in a steam autoclave at 134 degrees centigrade. This has been shown to kill all bacteria, viruses and spores.           All surgical instruments are sterilized and stored in sterilization pouches . All diamond and metal drills are disinfected in glutaraldehyde solution to kill all bacteria, viruses and spores.( including Hb B, AIDS and tuberculosis ). The few pieces of plastic instruments used are sterilized in glutaraldehyde solution to kill all bacteria, viruses and spores. For surgical procedures (implants-gum surgery, etc ) the work surfaces are covered with sterile drapes, and sterile gloves and gowns are worn. Equipment like suction tips, water cups and injector tips are chosen to be disposable.