2026 Catalog: All Courses

This is based upon the tip of the week e-mail sent out by DOH the week of January 27th, 2026. To gain CDE credit, participants must successfully pass a test [score 80] based upon the reading material.

Reading Materials:
Can I Put Both Plastic and Metal Components of a Dental X-ray Holding System in the Same Peel Pouch?
Here are some helpful links regarding sterilizing dental instruments


Generally it is acceptable to package both plastic and metal components of a dental x-ray holding system together in the same peel pouch for sterilization, provided that all items are compatible with the sterilization process being used and the manufacturer’s instructions for use [IFU] for both the instruments and the packaging material are followed. Some manufacturer’s require the metal components and the plastic components be sterilized separately.
Key considerations include:
•   Compatibility with Sterilization: Ensure that both the plastic and metal components are heat-tolerant and approved for the sterilization method [e.g., steam, chemical vapor, or dry heat]. Most dental x-ray holding devices are designed to withstand these processes, but always verify with the manufacturer’s IFU.
•   Packaging Material: Use only FDA-cleared peel pouches or wraps that are validated for the sterilization process. The pouch should allow penetration of the sterilizing agent and maintain sterility after processing.
•   Arrangement in the Pouch: Arrange items in the pouch so that all surfaces are exposed to the sterilizing agent. Do not overfill the pouch; instruments should not be stacked tightly or overlap excessively, as this can impede sterilant contact.
•   Sealing: Seal the pouch according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure sterility is maintained after processing.
•   Labeling: Label each package with the sterilizer used, cycle or load number, and date of sterilization. Use only markers or labels approved for sterilization packaging.
As long as both the plastic and metal components are compatible with the sterilization process, the pouch is not overfilled, and the IFU of the manufacturer indicates it is ok to sterilize them together, it is acceptable to package them together.
For further assurance, always check the manufacturer’s IFU for both the x-ray holding system and the sterilization pouch.

Examples of IFUs where it is contraindicated to sterilize them together
Sterilization instructions XCP-BAI
1.   Disassemble the instruments: Take apart all components of the XCP-BAI system, including the arms, rings, and holders.
2.   Clean thoroughly: Clean any debris from the components using hot water and soap.
3.   Prepare for autoclave: Place the disassembled parts into sterilization pouches.
1.   Keep parts separate: It is crucial to put plastic parts in a separate pouch from the metal arms. This prevents the plastics from warping or melting due to the heat transferred by the metal.
2.   Position pouches correctly: Place the pouches in the middle tray of the autoclave, ensuring they are not touching the walls or heating element.
4.   Run the autoclave cycle: Use a steam autoclave at 270°F [132°C] for 10 minutes at 30 PSI [206.8 kPa].
1.   Do not exceed 273°F [134°C].

Sterilization instructions for reusable components- EzAim X-Ray
•   Clean: First, clean the components with hot water and soap to remove debris.
•   Separate: Place plastic parts in a separate sterilization pouch from metal parts to prevent melting or warping.
•   Autoclave: Sterilize the pouches using steam sterilization only, following the autoclave manufacturer's instructions.
•   Do not exceed 273°F [134°C].




https://www.cdc.gov/dental-infection-control/hcp/summary/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr5217.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/media/pdfs/guideline-disinfection-h.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/dental-infection-control/hcp/dental-ipc-faqs/dental-sterilization.html
https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/disinfection-sterilization/efficacy-factors.html

Upon reviewing the NIPCS Tip of the week, you will:
1. Understand the ASTM requirements for maintaining an ultrasonic cleaner
2. Know the importance of following IFUs
3. Understand key considerations for sterilizing Dental X-ray holders

Damon Pope — Deputy Project Manager for the IHS Electronic Dental Record IHS DOH National Infection Control Consultant For follow-up questions, please contact the speaker at damon.pope@ihs.gov.

The speaker has no conflicts of interest to report.

It is the policy of the Indian Health Service, Division of Oral Health, that faculty/planners disclose any financial or other relationships with commercial companies whose products may be discussed in the educational activity. The Indian Health Service, Division of Oral Health, also requires that faculty disclose any unlabeled or investigative use of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. Images that have been falsified or manipulated to misrepresent treatment outcomes are prohibited.

None of the faculty/planners for this activity has a conflict of interest, and there is no use of unlabeled or investigative pharmaceutical products or medical devices. No images have been falsified or manipulated to misrepresent treatment outcomes.The educational objectives, content, and selection of educational methods and instructors are conducted independent of any commercial entity.

The IHS Division of Oral Health is an accredited sponsor of continuing education under the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (CERP). 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 IHS at IHS CDE Coordinator or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org

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