What is the purpose of ultrasonic cleaning of instruments before sterilization?

Ultrasonic cleaning is an essential step in the instrument sterilization process because it effectively removes bioburden debris. Bioburden refers to the presence of organic and inorganic materials, including blood, saliva, and other contaminants, on the surfaces of dental instruments. This contaminant removal is crucial because any remaining debris can shield microorganisms from the effects of sterilization agents, potentially leading to ineffective sterilization and increased infection risk.

Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create microscopic bubbles in a liquid cleaning solution. When these bubbles implode, they generate intense pressure waves that dislodge and remove debris from the instruments, including hard-to-reach areas. This process is particularly effective at cleaning intricate instruments with complex geometries and small crevices that manual cleaning might miss.

While drying instruments, enhancing visibility, or polishing surfaces are all related activities, they do not capture the primary function of ultrasonic cleaning in the context of preparing instruments for sterilization. The focus of ultrasonic cleaning is fundamentally on ensuring that all contaminants are cleared, promoting overall safety and effectiveness in infection control practices.