Heat-tolerant dental instruments usually are sterilized by
1. Steam under pressure (autoclaving)
2. Dry heat
3. Unsaturated chemical vapor
All sterilization should be performed by using medical sterilization equipment cleared by FDA. The instructions specified by the manufacturer should be followed.
Items to be sterilized should be arranged to permit free circulation of the sterilizing agent (eg, steam, chemical vapor or dry heat); manufacturer's instructions for loading the sterilizer chamber before removing and handling. Packs should not be touched until they are cool and dry because hot packs act as wicks, absorbing moisture, and hence, bacteria from hands.