Why is infection control so important?

Since the fear of transmission of HIV and AIDS in the 80's, the public are now much more aware of infection control, not only with regard to AIDS, but also of other infectious diseases such as Hepatitis, TB and CJD. It is clear that the public are taking a serious interest in infection control and their expectations are now higher than ever before. The public are aware that laws and statutes are in place to ensure the dentist carries out the correct procedures to guarantee their safety.

Proven case studies show that often a patient has not returned to a practice simply because of the lack of visible signs of infection control within the practice. The end result of this can be potentially very damaging to the success of the practice. It is therefore not only important to implement an effective infection control regime, but to be actually seen to be doing it by the patient.

We are now operating in times of high levels of competition within the dental industry. The introduction of high street brand names means that any competitive advantage which can be explored, should be. This includes the provision of the highest levels of infection control at all times. By providing effective infection control, and by making it visible, you can ensure that your patients feel safe and confident in your care, and that confidence can ensure that your patients return to you time after time rather than looking for an alternative practice.

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