In the medical and dental field, there would be no room for any equipment that is not perfectly sterile. This where the autoclave comes in. This article’s focus would be on autoclave uses. Please click on this link to learn more about autoclaves.
What is an autoclave?
The sterilization of equipment is an integral step that cannot be skipped in any medical or dental procedure. An autoclave is a machine that is used to eliminate any type of bacteria, germs or biohazardous waste material that is on equipment or tools that are to be used in a medical procedure. This machine is also sometimes referred to as a steam sterilization machine. This machine would use steam and a pressurized chamber to make sure that no bacteria or microbes will be able to survive on the surface of the equipment.
Autoclave uses
An autoclave can be used to clean and sterilize many tools and medical equipment that would be used in various procedures. Microbes cannot be simply wiped away, or just washed off with plain water and soap. They would require extra care to make sure that all hazardous bacteria be removed from all medical equipment because if this step is overlooked, it can increase the chances of infection to patients.
Surgery. It is a well-known fact that any tools that are used in the medical field have to be 100% germ and bacteria-free. Especially any 
tools that would be used in surgical procedures, have to be cleaned using an autoclave.
Dental equipment. Many people do not realize that also dental equipment should be cleaned using an autoclave to prevent the bacteria from transferring from one patient to another.
Medical labs. Medical labs that conduct tests on different patients would also require the need for an autoclave to sterilize their equipment.
Are there any materials or tools that cannot be cleaned using an autoclave?
There are quite a few materials that should never be put in an autoclave. Examples of these materials are flammable, corrosive or toxic materials because they will have an explosive reaction when placed in heat. Gloves and other materials that might melt should also not be put inside an autoclave. Plastic and any polystyrene materials should not be put in the autoclave either.
If you have any doubts as to if the material or tool can be put in an autoclave, refer to the instructions or guidelines that come with the machine. Also, as a general rule of thumb, avoid putting any material or equipment that may melt or explode when exposed to heat.
An autoclave is an integral part of medical and dental procedures. It is needed in all offices and clinics to make sure that no harmful bacteria come into contact with any of the patients. In any medical or dental procedure, there is no room for error when it comes to the sterilization of equipment. The patients and the medical or dental practice itself will benefit from the use of an autoclave.
