Written by Dentistry Today Wednesday, 17 April 2013 19:33
ANNAPOLIS, MD—March 29, 2013— The news that broke on March 28 of an Oklahoma oral surgeon that treated patients under unsanitary and unsafe conditions is as shocking to dental healthcare professionals as it is to the patients for whom we provide oral healthcare. While none of us outside of that practice and the officials investigating the reported violations can know all of the details, the Associated Press reports and other news agencies suggest that there is at least one suspected case of HCV transmission to a patient. The press reports that the dentist used instruments that were rusted and pitted, rendering them unsuitable for proper sterilization. He also is suspected of using single vials of medications on multiple patients and allowing unlicensed individuals to perform procedures that would require licensure, such as administration of intravenous medications. The office had no written infection control protocol. The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) would like to provide practitioners with information that may be helpful in reassuring patients who become fearful of receiving dental care due to the widespread reporting of this case. It is important to focus on why patients should feel safe in our clinics and offices. Some talking points may include: