What is the primary focus of infection control in dental practices?

The primary focus of infection control in dental practices is to eliminate pathogens and prevent disease transmission. This is crucial because dental procedures involve close contact with patients, which can facilitate the spread of infectious agents if strict infection control measures are not implemented. Proper infection control protocols, such as sterilization of instruments, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining a clean environment, help protect both patients and dental healthcare providers from potential infections.

While patient comfort, data collection, and treatment efficiency are important aspects of a dental practice, they do not take precedence over infection control measures. The health and safety of patients and staff are paramount, which is why the focus is on preventing infections and ensuring a safe environment for all individuals involved.