Assessment of Sterilization and Infection Control Compliance in Private Dental Clinics Offering Oral Surgical Services in Abuja, FCT

Private dental clinics in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory provide a significant volume of oral surgical services, yet their infection control practices are subject to minimal regulatory oversight compared to public tertiary facilities. Non-compliance with sterilization protocols in these settings poses risks of cross-infection with blood-borne pathogens including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. This cross-sectional observational study assesses sterilization and infection control compliance among private dental clinics offering oral surgical services in Abuja, FCT, applying to multiple geopolitical zones through its national function as the capital. An infection control observational checklist derived from the Nigerian Dental Association clinical governance standards was used during structured clinic visits to 36 registered private dental clinics. Parameters assessed include autoclave functionality and validation, instrument immersion protocols, surface decontamination, dental unit waterline management, personal protective equipment, and waste segregation. Results reveal that functional autoclaves were available in 61% of clinics, though biological indicator testing was performed in only 22% of those facilities. Chemical disinfection of dental impressions and prostheses was performed inconsistently. Dental unit waterlines were assessed in only 14% of clinics, none of which had documented records of waterline maintenance. The study calls for regulatory enforcement by the Dental and Medical Councils of Nigeria and recommends a standardized accreditation framework for private oral surgical services in the FCT. Keywords: infection control, sterilization, private dental clinics, Abuja, FCT.