Advantages / Disadvantages of Sterilization

Disadvantages Rapid heat transfer (forced air)

Damages some plastic and rubber items Instruments must be predried Cannot sterilize liquids

Disadvantages Steam autoclave

Damages some plastic and rubber items Requires use of distilled water May rust non-stainless steel instruments and burs Cannot use closed containers

Disadvantages Unsaturated chemical vapor

Instruments must be dry Damages some plastic and rubber items Requires special solution Requires good ventilation Cannot sterilize liquids Cannot use closed containers Cloth wrap may absorb chemicals

Disadvantages Dry heat oven type (static air)

Long sterilization time Instruments must be predried Damages some plastic and rubber items Cannot sterilize liquids

Advantages Dry heat oven type (static air)

No corrosion Can use closed containers Items are dry after cycle

Advantages Rapid heat transfer (forced air)

Very fast No corrosion Items are dry after cycle

Advantages Unsaturated chemical vapor

Short time Good penetration of steam Commonly used in dental offices

Advantages - Steam autoclave

Short time No corrosion Instruments dry quickly following cycle