Minnesota Dental Jurisprudence Practice Exam

When handling extracted teeth, what type of disposal is typically required?

1. Regular waste disposal

2. Incineration or hazardous waste disposal

3. Recycling

4. Composting

The correct answer is: Incineration or hazardous waste disposal

The correct answer is based on the specific protocols and regulations outlined by dental practice and public health standards regarding the disposal of biohazardous waste. Extracted teeth are considered medical waste, which means they may potentially harbor infectious materials. As such, they must be disposed of in a manner that minimizes the risk to public health and the environment. Incineration or hazardous waste disposal effectively destroys any pathogens that could be present in the extracted teeth, thereby preventing any risk of contamination or infection. This method is widely accepted and mandated in many jurisdictions, including Minnesota, as it aligns with the guidelines set by regulatory bodies overseeing medical and dental waste management. The other options do not adhere to these health and safety standards. Regular waste disposal could lead to the risk of exposure for sanitation workers and the public. Recycling would be inappropriate given the biological nature of the waste, and composting would not be suitable as it does not eliminate potential pathogens and could pose a biohazard. Therefore, the necessity for strict disposal methods is paramount to maintaining health safety standards in dental practices.