title: An inquiry into the sterilization of dental handpieces relative to transmission of hepatitis B virus.
abstract: The transmission of the hepatitis B virus has been implicated in the dental office. The dental profession should be keenly aware of aseptic clinical techniques and effective sterilization procedures. Some dental handpieces can be damaged by conventional sterilization procedures. Alternative procedures are discussed. A review of currently available handpieces and their appropriate sterilization procedures is presented.
mesh_terms: D003762:Dental Instruments; D004203:Disinfection; D006505:Hepatitis / Q000503:physiopathology; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000276:immunology / Q000635:transmission*; D006515:Hepatitis B virus; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D013242:Sterilization / Q000379:methods*; D014867:Water
chemical_list: D014867:Water