Which statement about instrument processing is true?

• A. Reusable instruments must be cleaned and sterilized
• B. All instruments are disposable
• C. Disinfection alone is sufficient
• D. Autoclaves are unnecessary for dental practice

Answer: (A)

Cleaning and sterilizing reusable dental instruments is essential to ensure they are truly sterile before patient use. Cleaning removes debris and organic matter that can shield microorganisms, and sterilization then kills all microorganisms, including spores. Relying on disinfection alone only lowers the microbial load; it does not achieve sterility, so it cannot replace sterilization for reusable instruments. Autoclaves, which use pressurized steam, are a standard, validated method to achieve sterilization in dental practice, though other approved methods exist. Remember, some instruments are disposable, but many are designed to be cleaned and sterilized—so processing them properly is critical for patient safety.