What sterilization method is known to dull instruments?

The steaming process used in a steam autoclave is effective for sterilizing dental instruments, but it can cause dulling over time. This occurs because the high temperatures and moisture involved in steam sterilization can lead to oxidation or corrosion of metal surfaces, which may reduce the sharpness of blades and cutting edges on instruments.

In contrast, the other sterilization methods mentioned, like hydrogen peroxide and glutaraldehyde, do not typically involve high heat or moisture that would cause such dulling. Hydrogen peroxide is primarily used as a disinfectant and may not have the same toll on instruments as heat-based methods. Similarly, dry heat is less abrasive on instruments compared to steam; while it does take longer to achieve sterility, it is less likely to cause immediate dulling. Thus, steam autoclave stands out because of its effectiveness in sterilization coupled with the potential drawback of dulling instruments.