Infection Control in U.S. Dental Practice: Current Standards, Guidelines, and Emerging Challenges

Infection control is a critical component of dental practice, essential for preventing the transmission of infectious agents among patients, dental health care personnel, and the clinical environment. Dental settings pose unique infection risks due to frequent exposure to blood and saliva, use of sharp instruments, and the generation of aerosols during routine procedures. In the United States, infection control in dentistry is guided by evidence-based recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and professional organizations such as the American Dental Association. This narrative review summarizes current infection control standards and guidelines relevant to U.S. dental practice, including standard precautions, instrument processing and sterilization, environmental infection control, dental unit waterline management, aerosol and airborne infection control measures, and occupational health considerations. The review also highlights emerging challenges, such as evolving infectious threats, antimicrobial resistance, inconsistencies in guideline implementation, resource and cost constraints, and the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental infection control practices. Strengthening infection prevention efforts through continued education, consistent adherence to established guidelines, and adaptability to emerging risks is essential for maintaining patient and provider safety and ensuring high-quality dental care in the United States.