Choose the Best Autoclave Sterilizer for Your Dental Practice

Get the best sterilization results with the right autoclave choice for your dental practice.

Maintaining a sterile environment in your dental practice is more important than ever in the Covid-19 era, which in turn, makes choosing the right steam sterilizer a crucial decision in the area of infection control.

However, despite its long history, the steam sterilization process can still be a source of confusion for some dental staff. Understanding the equipment, the different types of sterilization cycles, and how to use them is essential for ensuring consistent performance.

The European Standard EN13060, which outlines the general requirements for small steam sterilizers, such as those used in small office dental practices, also describes the three types of cycles and the technology behind them. It is important to note that not all types of sterilizers or cycles are appropriate for all types of instruments.

Types of Steam Sterilizers

There are three main types of steam sterilizers: Gravity Displacement, S (Specified) Cycle and Pre-Vacuum.

1. Gravity Displacement Autoclaves

One type is the displacement autoclave, also known as a gravity autoclave, which utilizes superheated steam to displace air downwards and out of the sterilizing chamber. The process is gentle and removes air by the action of steam rising and cold air falling vertically in the chamber. However, this type of sterilizer is not suitable for hollow items, such as dental handpieces, or for wrapped items. These cycles are known as “N” cycles, where the N means None hollow and None wrapped (Naked solid items).

These devices are often the most cost-effective option and are suitable for most dental practices.

Top 5 Dental Autoclave Sterilizers for Every Budget

2. S (Specified) Cycle Sterilizer

Another type is the S (Specified) cycle sterilizer with assisted air removal. These sterilizers are specific to certain products, and the manufacturer has determined what cycle can be used for which load type.

They have also provided information on their performance capabilities, which they have established through specific tests. These sterilizers can process any load type that the manufacturer has specified, including handpieces and wrapped items. They use various processes for active air removal, overcoming the limitations experienced in N cycles that employ gravity displacement.

3. Pre-Vacuum Autoclaves

Pre-vacuum autoclaves, also known as pre-vacuum sterilizers, use a combination of heat, pressure, and vacuum to sterilize instruments and materials. They work by first removing the air from the chamber, then introducing steam to raise the temperature to the required level for sterilization.

Pre-vacuum autoclaves are often used in high-volume settings, such as hospitals or large dental clinics, as they offer a higher level of sterilization than gravity displacement autoclaves.

Read: Top 5 Dental Autoclave Sterilizers for Every Budget

What are the three classes of autoclaves?

The three main classifications of autoclaves are S class autoclaves, B class autoclaves, and N class autoclaves.

N class autoclaves are generally not used in dental practices as they are only suitable for sterilizing simple materials and cannot be used for textiles or porous loads.

S class autoclaves are an intermediate class between N and B class autoclaves and can be used for sterilizing porous bagged products but not textiles. B class autoclaves, also known as vacuum sterilizers, are the most suitable for dental practices in accordance with European Standard 13060 and are suitable for a wide range of settings.

They can be used to sterilize all loads including solids, type A hollow instruments, type B hollow instruments, textiles, porous loads, and wrapped instruments.

Factors to Consider

Factors to consider before buying an autoclave for dental clinics include sterilization cycle duration, the autoclave price, capacity of autoclave, warranty and technical support, autoclave security system and other factors such as the size of the clinic and the frequency of use.

Here are several key factors to consider:

Capacity: The size of the sterilizer will depend on the number of instruments and materials you need to sterilize on a regular basis. It is important to choose a sterilizer that meets your practice’s needs in terms of capacity. The capacity range of Class B autoclaves is between 8 and 26 litres.

Sterilization cycle time: The time it takes for the sterilizer to complete a cycle can vary significantly between models. Be sure to choose a sterilizer with a cycle time that meets the needs of your practice.

The duration of the sterilization phase is usually between 5 and 20 minutes but will depend on factors such as load quantity.

Control features: Look for a sterilizer with user-friendly controls and a clear, easy-to-read display. Some models also come with additional features such as automatic shut-off and self-diagnostics.

Service and support: It is important to choose a steriliser from a reputable manufacturer that offers excellent service and support. This will ensure that your steriliser is properly maintained and that any issues are quickly and efficiently resolved.

Why are dental autoclaves so expensive?

The cost of a steam sterilizer can vary significantly between models and manufacturers. This device is used to sterilize all of the instruments used in the office, ensuring that they are clean and safe for use on patients. However, many dentists and dental office managers are often surprised by the high cost of dental autoclaves.

Dental autoclaves are complex and sophisticated devices. They use a combination of heat, pressure, and steam to sterilize instruments, and they require a great deal of precision and accuracy. They also require regular maintenance and calibration, which can be costly.

The autoclaves often come with features and options like the ability to print sterilization cycle reports and automatic loading/unloading of instrument trays, all of which add to the cost of production, hence the hefty price tags.

The cost of materials is also a major factor that contributes to the high cost of dental autoclaves. These machines are typically made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, in addition to the parts that are used to create the pressure and heat necessary for sterilization.

Before making a decision, it’s also important to consider that buying a used autoclave may not always be the best option. A new, custom-built autoclave tailored to your specific needs is often a better choice.

Top 5 Dental Autoclave Sterilizers for Every Budget

Summary

Maintaining a spotless and germ-free environment in your dental practice requires careful consideration when selecting the appropriate sterilization equipment.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But as a dental professional, it’s important to understand the different types of sterilizers available and the factors to consider before making a purchase.

Gravity displacement autoclaves, S cycle sterilizers, and pre-vacuum autoclaves are the three available options, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. To ensure that you choose the best option for your practice, consider factors such as capacity, sterilization cycle time, control features, and the level of service and support offered by the manufacturer.

Bearing in mind the significant outlay on a dental autoclave, it’s important to remember that the cost of materials and precision needed for sterilization also plays a role in their price tags.

It may be tempting to buy a used autoclave, which may seem like a cost-effective option in the immediate term. However, investing in a custom-built, new autoclave tailored to your specific needs might be a better choice in the long run.

As you weigh your options, take the time to research and ask questions. Choosing the right steam sterilizer is key to ensuring consistent performance and maintaining a sterile environment in your practice.