Which practice is considered essential for preventing cross-contamination in a dental office?

Preventing cross-contamination in a dental office is critical to ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Regular hand washing is an essential practice as it significantly reduces the microbial load on the hands, which is a primary vehicle for the transmission of pathogens. This practice is vital before and after patient interactions, as well as after touching any surfaces or equipment.

Using sterilized equipment is equally important because it ensures that any instruments coming into contact with a patient's tissues are free from pathogens. Sterilization processes eliminate microorganisms, thus preventing any potential transfer of infections from one patient to another.

Together, regular hand washing and the use of sterilized equipment form a comprehensive approach to infection control. They address different aspects of cross-contamination prevention—hand hygiene focuses on the personal practices of the dental staff, while sterilization pertains to the management of instruments and equipment used in the dental care process. Both practices work in tandem to create a safer environment in the dental office. Therefore, the combination of these two practices is essential for effective infection control, making the choice that includes both hand washing and using sterilized equipment the correct answer.