Which term describes chemical killing of all microorganisms including spores?

• A. Disinfection
• B. Sterilization
• C. Antisepsis
• D. Disinfestation

Answer: (B)

Sterilization is the process that kills or eliminates all forms of life, including bacterial spores. In dental practice, instruments must be sterilized to ensure no viable microbes, spores included, remain. Disinfection reduces the number of pathogens on inanimate surfaces but does not guarantee destruction of spores. Antisepsis applies to living tissues to lower microbial load, not to achieving complete sterility. Disinfestation isn’t the standard term used for healthcare microbial control. When a chemical agent is used to achieve this level of kill, the goal described is still sterilization, typically via chemical sterilants used under validated conditions.