In Dentists

Pennsylvania dentist ordered to close practice over contamination issues — 5 insights

A dentist's office in Mount Bethel Township, Pa., was shut down Aug. 23, after the Pennsylvania Department of Health found several sterilization problems, Lehigh Valley Live reports.

Here's what you should know:

1. Palmer Cotturo, DDS, allegedly failed to dispose of used needles properly and didn't provide proof he kept his office clean.

2. Dr. Cotturo allegedly did not have cleaning or disinfection protocols in place, and his staff was not trained on how to keep a sterile workplace.

3. The state is still investigating Dr. Cotturo, but his office will be shut down during the investigation.

4. The state believes patients are at risk of contracting diseases such as HIV and hepatitis because of cross contamination.

5. Dr. Cotturo has to turn over all patient records from April 1, 2009, to July 20, 2018, that deal with the use of nitrous oxide or other anesthetics.

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