Which of the following is a common practice for disinfection in a dental office?

Utilizing a 1:10 diluted bleach solution is a common practice for disinfection in a dental office because it effectively kills a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi that may be present on surfaces. The concentration of the solution is specifically designed to strike a balance between efficacy and safety, ensuring that high-touch surfaces in the dental environment are appropriately disinfected.

Bleach, or sodium hypochlorite, is a powerful disinfectant that, when diluted correctly, can be used safely on non-porous surfaces such as dental chairs, countertops, and instruments that can withstand its chemical properties. This practice is often recommended in infection control protocols, as it aligns with guidelines set forth by health organizations regarding the disinfection of potentially contaminated surfaces.

Other disinfection methods may not be appropriate for various reasons. For example, using antiseptics on all surfaces is not practical, as antiseptics are typically meant for skin disinfection rather than for high-touch surfaces in a clinical environment. Relying solely on air drying is ineffective since it does not provide any actual disinfection; pathogens can survive on surfaces for significant periods if not properly disinfected. Using untested household cleaners may also pose a risk, as these products might not meet