Yes, in the 39 states where their practice acts reference the CDC Guidelines, if a Semicritical item (dental handpiece) does not come in contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin, it does not require heat sterilization between patients. Since the Esa DPA’s extended length prevents that from occurring, most practices use a plastic barrier on the attached handpiece to prevent cross contamination. This is further detailed on page 14 of the CDC Guidelines.