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As infection control standards continue to evolve, dental professionals are seeking tools that not only meet today’s requirements but anticipate tomorrow’s demands. The maxill Process Challenge Device (PCD) stands out as a future-ready, cost-effective, and scientifically grounded solution for validating sterilizer performance in dental settings.

Designed for Real-World Sterilization Challenges

The maxill PCD is engineered to replicate one of the most difficult sterilization scenarios in dentistry: a narrow lumen, prioritizing clinical specificity over general simulation. This deliberate design closely mirrors the internal geometry of dental handpieces, ultrasonic sleeves, hollow mirror handles, and air polisher handpieces, equipment that demands the highest level of sterilization assurance.

You might ask, why not use a flat, square, or rectangular PCD

In dentistry, and especially in infection prevention and control (IPAC), the term “best practice” is often misunderstood. Many assume it's an optional extra, something aspirational or “above and beyond” the standards. But in reality, best practice is not about going beyond the standards, it's about fully meeting them through a responsible, evidence-informed, and risk-managed approach.

Let me explain.

When we say “best practice,” what we really mean is: meeting the standards with accountability. Best practice is about taking the regulatory standards and interpreting them through the lens of risk management, tailoring them to your specific clinical environment. It's not an abstract concept or a luxury for high-end clinics. It is the professional duty of every regulated health professional.

Why Standards Sound Vague—And Why That's Intentional

Often, standards are written broadly. This is not becaus

In the world of dental infection prevention and control (IPAC), the terms *guidelines* and *standards* are often used as if they mean the same thing. But should they be? And more importantly … does it matter?

Yes, it matters. A lot.

What's the Difference?

Standards are formal, enforceable requirements set by regulatory bodies. They are the minimum expectations for safe and ethical practice. Meeting these standards is not optional—they are legally binding, and failing to comply can lead to professional consequences, including disciplinary action or loss of license.

Guidelines, on the other hand, are recommendations. They are typically developed by public health agencies, expert panels, or research organizations. While not enforceable on their own, guidelines represent current best practices and offer direction on how to implement standards effectively and safely.

Why Are They Confused?

In today’s high-tech dental world, quality assurance (QA) often brings to mind automated sensors and software calibration. But there's one old-school, low-tech tool that remains just as essential as ever: the step wedge. Health Canada’s Safety Code 30 and best practice guidelines still recommend regular use of this tool to ensure your dental radiography systems are functioning correctly (Health Canada, 2022). If your practice is overlooking step wedge testing, or not logging it properly, you may be putting diagnostic accuracy and patient safety at risk.

What Is a Step Wedge Test?

A step wedge is a radiographic quality control tool made of graduated thicknesses of aluminum. When exposed to X-rays, it produces a pattern of varying density levels on the image. This test helps evaluate the consistency of image quality and monitor changes in exposure, sensor calibration, or processing systems (for fil

What is the Financial Worth of Each Operatory?

Every operatory in a dental practice represents a significant source of revenue. Based on minimum daily production estimates:

• A hygiene operatory generates at least $1,800 per day.
• A DDS operatory generates at least $3,000 per day.

Beyond direct production, every operatory also carries associated labour costs. In this analysis, we account for:

• Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH) @ $400 per day
• Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) @ $200 per day
• Administrative staff (Admin) @ $200 per day

This basic model does not include:

• Percentages paid to associate dentists
• Salaries for office managers
• Additional costs for percentages paid to specialists

Understanding the True Cost of Non-Compliance

Denture stomatitis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide who wear dentures. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, particularly under the denture. If left untreated, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infection. In this blog, we'll explore the causes of denture stomatitis, how to prevent it, and provide tips on how to properly care for and maintain your dentures.

What is Denture Stomatitis?

Denture stomatitis is a condition that occurs when the mucous membranes in the mouth become irritated and inflamed due to the presence of dentures. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Inadequate hygiene and cleaning
• Bacterial and fungal infections
• Irritation from denture adhesive or materials
• Dry mouth (

April 4 to 10 is our week, fellow RDHs! National Dental Hygienists Week™ (NDHW™) is a time to reflect on how far we've come as a profession, celebrate our contributions to oral health, and continue advocating for a future where everyone has access to preventive care. We are the unsung heroes of dentistry, bridging the gaps in healthcare, fostering trust with our clients, and standing at the forefront of prevention.

Our Journey: From Auxiliary to Independent Healthcare Providers

Did you know that dental hygiene as a profession started in 1913 with Dr. Alfred Fones training Irene Newman in Connecticut? His vision was clear: rather than just treating disease, we would prevent it. That vision remains at the core of what we do today.

For decades, RDHs were restricted to working under strict supervision, but as research reinforced the connection between oral and systemic health, our role expanded. And now? We are essential members of the healthcare team. We've earned our

In the dental field, maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to ensuring patient safety and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. One of the fundamental practices that can significantly impact infection control is proper donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) of personal protective equipment (PPE). In this blog, we’ll explore why these practices are essential for dental professionals, provide step-by-step instructions for both donning and doffing and highlight key tips to keep in mind.

The Importance of Proper Donning and Doffing

The mouth can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and viruses, making it imperative for dental professionals to take the necessary precautions. The correct donning and doffing of PPE help to:

• Protect Patients and Staff: Wearing proper PPE safeguards b