Final answer:
The SBDE mandates strict infection control protocols for dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants to prevent transmission of infections, especially due to the risk of needle stick injuries that dentists face.
Step-by-step explanation:
The SBDE (State Board of Dental Examiners) has regulations in place that require dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants to adhere to strict guidelines and protocols related to infection control. This is crucial to prevent the spread of infections in dental practice settings where professionals are regularly exposed to bodily fluids such as saliva and blood, which can transmit diseases. Given that dental professionals, like dentists, are at a higher risk of needle stick injuries, the SBDE enforces rules that help minimize this risk to maintain a safe working environment for both healthcare workers and patients.