My dentist used tools that were already on the table before i walked into the room to clean my teeth. is that sanitary?

Dentist: If they were sterilized before being placed there. And the "table" had been cleared as well.

By Law: Instruments are sterilized between uses. Dental assistants are trained to lay out the ones needed for each procedure before they seat the next patient. If you have a question, don't hesitate to ask. You will be reassured by the lengths dental offices go to insure your protection.

Depends: They may have been removed from a sterile pack to save time. I personally prefer to open my sterile pouches in front of the patient to remove all doubt.