There are generally two sterilization methods – physical (for example heat) and chemical.
Dental instruments that require heat sterilization (autoclave) procedure
All stainless steel, tungsten carbide, and Teflon-coated dental hand instruments
All burs and bur changers
All endodontic and orthodontic instruments
Air-water syringe tips
High-volume evacuator tips
Dental surgical instruments
Ultrasonic periodontal scalers and tips
Electro-surgery tips
Metal impression trays
Intra-oral radiographic equipment that can withstand heat sterilization
