HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of sterilization method uses high-pressure steam?

1. Dry heat sterilization

2. Radiation sterilization

3. Autoclave

4. Filtration

The correct answer is: Autoclave

The correct answer is associated with the autoclave, which is a device that uses high-pressure steam to achieve sterilization. In this process, steam is generated under pressure, increasing its temperature above what is achievable at standard atmospheric pressure. This high temperature is effective in destroying microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores that may be present on dental instruments and materials. The principles behind autoclaving involve moist heat that penetrates materials better than dry heat, allowing for thorough sterilization. The typical cycle involves heating to temperatures around 121-134 degrees Celsius for a specific duration, ensuring that all organisms are effectively eliminated. Other sterilization methods like dry heat sterilization rely on hot air that can take longer to achieve the necessary temperature for sterilization, while radiation sterilization employs ionizing radiation to kill organisms, and filtration is primarily used for liquid sterilization by removing microbes without the use of heat. Therefore, the autoclave is particularly favored in dental settings due to its efficiency and effectiveness in sterilizing tools and ensuring safety in clinical environments.