When I say “legacy errors,” I’m talking about those habits that get passed down from one generation of dental professionals to the next. You know, the things we do just because we’ve always done them that way. The ones that often don’t make any sense, but we’re too busy (or tired) to question. These legacy errors aren’t just annoying—they can actually mess up your infection control, damage equipment, and make things harder for everyone. Let’s unpack some of the biggest offenders and talk about how to finally kick these habits to the curb.
What Exactly Is a Legacy Error?
A legacy error is a habit that started out as a “good enough” workaround but eventually became part of the routine. It’s like that drawer everyone keeps cramming stuff into until one day you can’t even get it open anymore. And trust me, there are plenty of “crammed drawers” in dentistry. Some of the big ones? Improper use of sterilization pouches, touching cabinets with “clean” gloves, and skipping steps in waterline maintenance. We all do them, but they’re not helping anyone.
The thing is, most of these errors happen because we assume something is fine just because it worked in the past. But that’s not a good enough reason to keep doing it. With infection control, little habits can mean big issues down the line.
Legacy Error #1: Overpacking the Sterilization Pouches
Look, I get it. It’s tempting to cram as much as possible into one sterilization pouch. It seems like you’re saving time, right? Wrong. When you overpack pouches, the steam can’t reach every surface. That’s not “sterilizing”—it’s pretending to sterilize, which is even worse because you think it’s safe when it’s not.
And while we’re at it, let’s talk about stuffing the autoclave to the max. If you’re jamming in pouches until you can barely close the door, you’re not saving time—you’re compromising sterilization. Let’s use the right-sized pouches and give instruments some breathing room. They (and your patients) will thank you.
Legacy Error #2: Thinking Barrier Wraps Are Just for Show
We’ve all heard people say, “But it’s just plastic!” when it comes to barrier wraps. Here’s the deal: barrier wraps are there to protect the nooks, crannies, and switches that are a nightmare to clean properly. Sure, you might still need to disinfect visible surfaces that the wrap didn’t cover, like the tip of the air/water syringe if the barrier shifted. But don’t skip wrapping just because it seems like an extra step.
And remember, if the wrap hasn’t torn and you’ve removed it properly, the surface underneath is still considered clean. There’s no need to go back over it with a wipe—it’s already protected.
Legacy Error #3: Using One Disinfectant Wipe and Calling It a Day
Let’s talk about disinfectant wipes. A lot of us have been trained to grab one wipe, swipe it across a surface, and move on. But using a single wipe in just one hand can spread contaminants as fast as it’s cleaning them. That bare hand (or glove) that isn’t holding a wipe? It’s touching everything, which just creates cross-contamination.
Here’s the fix: Use a wipe in each hand, cover your bases, and make sure you’re disinfecting every surface instead of just moving contaminants around.
Legacy Error #4: Gloves On = Dirty Task
Gloves on? That’s a signal you’re handling something dirty or patient-related. When I see someone going into drawers or touching “clean” items with gloves, it immediately tells me there’s cross-contamination happening. Gloves should be used for dirty tasks, and clean hands should handle clean surfaces. So, before you grab anything in a drawer or touch cabinets, make sure you’re either gloveless or using a barrier to prevent any unintentional contamination. It’s a small habit shift that makes a big difference in infection control!
Legacy Error #5: Skipping Steps in Waterline Maintenance
Waterline maintenance might feel like one of those “once a month” tasks, but it’s more crucial than that. If you don’t keep up with waterline treatment, biofilm starts to build up, and once it’s there, it’s a pain to get rid of. Some products require regular shocking, while others don’t, so check the manufacturer’s instructions. The point is, don’t assume one protocol fits all—actually follow the guidelines for your specific waterline maintenance product.
And remember, if your office shuts down for a holiday, it’s important to follow your product’s instructions for a prolonged shutdown. Some systems need to be drained, while others have products designed to sit over long breaks. A little attention here saves you a lot of hassle later.
Why Legacy Errors Happen (and How to Fix Them)
Most legacy errors happen because we get busy, fall into routines, or assume something’s good enough because we haven’t seen an issue yet. But infection control isn’t a “good enough” kind of thing—it’s something we need to get right every time. The solution? Take a step back, look at your protocols, and question what you’re doing. If it doesn’t line up with CDC guidelines or current best practices, it might be time for a change.
To make sure everyone is on the same page, I highly recommend implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and providing regular training. Our Infection Control Coordinator’s Guidebook has CDC-aligned protocols and practical checklists, so your team has clear guidance on every step. And if you’re looking to really level up, our Beyond the Basics course offers deeper training to help ICCs keep infection control on track.
Let’s Leave Legacy Errors in the Past
Legacy errors are like bad habits—easy to slip into, but hard to get out of. However, with a little intention and updated training, you can replace these habits with ones that actually work. So let’s start questioning those “just because” routines and work toward a safer, more effective practice.
Ready to ditch the legacy errors and tighten up your infection control? Join me in making dental practices safer, one protocol at a time.
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