Critical items must be sterilized because they have a high risk for:

The choice that states critical items must be sterilized because they have a high risk for transmission of infection is accurate. In dental practices, critical items are those that penetrate soft tissue or bone and, as a result, pose a significant risk of transmitting infection if they are not properly sterilized. This includes instruments such as scalpels, surgical scissors, and other utensils that are used during invasive procedures. Because these items directly interact with sterile tissues, any pathogens present on them can lead to serious infections in patients.

For patient safety and adherence to infection control protocols, the sterilization process is essential to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. This thorough disinfection process minimizes the risk of cross-contamination between patients, which is crucial in maintaining high standards of healthcare practices and ensuring the well-being of all individuals receiving treatment.