The landscape of dental infection control and patient safety is undergoing a significant transformation. The Association for Dental Safety (ADS), a trusted authority in dental safety for over four decades, has established the ADS Institute for Dental Safety and Science—a new nonprofit dedicated to continuing and enhancing the essential work previously carried out by the CDC’s Division of Oral Health.
With the recent elimination of the CDC’s Division of Oral Health, a critical gap emerged in the ongoing development and communication of national infection control guidelines and best practices. The ADS Institute, under the leadership of experienced infection control expert Eve Cuny, will serve as the central body for updating, developing, and disseminating science-based protocols to safeguard both providers and patients. The Institute's mandate is clear: maintain the highest standards of infection prevention, ensure continuous access to evidence-based guidance, and support the dental industry’s commitment to safety in every patient encounter.
Implications for Dental Laboratories and Practices
The importance of reliable, up-to-date infection control standards cannot be overstated—especially for dental laboratories and practices navigating complex regulatory expectations. Key industry incidents, such as outbreaks linked to unsanitary dental unit waterlines and the nationwide need for clear guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the ongoing risks and the critical value of robust infection prevention measures. The ADS Institute’s work—ranging from updated white papers to new educational tools and advisory committees—will have direct, practical impacts on daily operations within dental facilities and laboratories.
How SafeLink Consulting Supports Your Compliance Journey
SafeLink Consulting is committed to supporting dental professionals and businesses as new guidelines, tools, and standards evolve. Our team continuously monitors regulatory developments and actively engages with leading industry organizations to ensure our clients receive timely updates and actionable resources. With our expertise, you can confidently:
- Assess your current infection control protocols against the most recent industry standards
- Implement effective waterline safety strategies and risk assessment practices
- Prepare for upcoming updates to national Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings
- Access training and continuous education aligned with the latest regulatory changes
Learn more about assessing your dental practice's sterilization process.
Taking Action in a Changing Regulatory Environment
As the ADS Institute for Dental Safety and Science takes on this pivotal national role, it is essential for dental practices, laboratories, and related businesses to review and, where needed, enhance their compliance systems. SafeLink Consulting offers tailored OSHA and infection control solutions designed specifically for dental and healthcare environments. Our mission aligns with the Institute’s goals: to provide expertise, advocacy, and peace of mind through regulatory clarity and best-in-class safety practices.
We encourage all dental industry stakeholders to stay informed about evolving requirements and to leverage expert resources for compliance assurance. Connect with SafeLink Consulting to ensure your organization is well-positioned to meet the highest standards in dental infection prevention and patient safety moving forward.
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