Package Description

Effective instrument reprocessing is your linchpin for protecting both patients and your team in dentistry. In this webinar, you’ll explore current CDC recommendations on cleaning, packaging, sterilization, and monitoring; clarify FDA and EPA roles around device reprocessing and liquid chemical sterilants/high-level disinfectant; and see how ADA practice guidance applies. You’ll learn how to translate these expectations into practical workflows—linking Spaulding classification to device IFUs, selecting and validating sterilization cycles, and strengthening quality assurance through routine biological, chemical, and mechanical monitoring.

By the end, you’ll leave with a tightened, survey-ready process that aligns with evidence, regulations, and manufacturer requirements—without slowing down your clinical flow. You’ll also learn how to manage complex handpieces and multi-component devices, create documentation that stands up to audits, and follow clear decision pathways when monitoring fails. Throughout the session, you’ll cross-walk CDC benchmark guidance with FDA reprocessing guidance and ADA recommendations, and you’ll gain clarity on EPA jurisdiction over surface products to reduce confusion.

Learning Objectives:

• Apply CDC and FDA guidance to select the correct cleaning, packaging, and sterilization processes for dental instruments and devices.
•  Interpret and monitor sterilization cycles using mechanical, chemical, and biological indicators, and take appropriate corrective actions when failures occur.
• Develop workflows and documentation that align with regulatory requirements, manufacturer IFUs, and best practices for patient and team safety.

Price:

• Members & Non-Members: Free

Continuing Education

ADS is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider.

ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ADA.org/CERP.

Please email the ADS office at [email protected] or call +1 (410) 571-0003 if you wish to be in contact with the course author/creator(s) with any questions or for clarification of course concepts or for technical assistance in completing the online test.

All participants assume individual responsibility for providing evidence of contact hours of continuing education to the appropriate authorities and for the maintenance of their individual records.

Learn more about our CE Program & Provider Recognition.

CE Credits: 1.00
Educational Method: Lecture, Recorded, Self-instruction (self-study)
Location: Online
Publication Date: June 2026
Expiration Date: June 30, 2029
Prerequisite: None - Recommended for All

Speaker:

Deanna Otts-Whitfield, MSHQS, BSDH, RDH, CDIPC

Deanna Otts-Whitfield is a highly experienced and respected dental professional with a strong passion for oral health education, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Her adulthood started with four years of honorable service in the United States Marine Corps—an experience that instilled in her a deep sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Deanna holds a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from Texas Woman’s University and an executive master’s degree in Healthcare Quality and Safety from Sam Houston State University. In 2023, she earned her Certification in Dental Infection Prevention and Control (CDIPC) from the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), underscoring her dedication to evidence-based, safe clinical practices. With over 16 years of experience in the dental industry, Deanna has developed extensive expertise in infection control, patient care, OSHA compliance, and clinical best practices. She currently serves as a compliance consultant with Copper Penny Consulting, where she empowers dental teams with practical strategies to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency. Deanna is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), Dental Entrepreneur Women (DeW), the Speaking Consulting Network (SCN), Minnesota Dental Hygienist’s Association, and the Marine Corps League. She has contributed her time and insight as a board member of the Texas Dental Hygienists’ Association and the Texas Oral Health Coalition. As a published author of several industry articles and a dynamic public speaker, Deanna is known for translating complex regulatory topics into engaging, actionable insights. Whether presenting from the stage or consulting in the operatory, she is driven by a mission to elevate patient safety and support dental teams in delivering exceptional care.

Disclosures: No relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Educational Funding Provided By: ProEdge & Benco

Refund & Cancellation: No refunds will be provided as the webinar is free. Registration can be canceled at any time.