Plastic burned onto Dish washer heat item? A plastic spatula fell on to the heating component of our dish...

A plastic spatula fell on to the heating component of our dish washer. Is there a opening to correct the problem of fumes (Toxic?) coming from the heating part? Can the melted plastic be removed? Must I replace the entire heat element?
My cat jump down my dryer and punctured...
Answers:    Just strip it off when it's cold. It should come right sour. Unless you see damage I wouldn't replace it.
Gas wet oven making a bubbling boom?
For safety's sake, it is best to replace the component. They really aren't very expensive. Sometimes you can find them at used appliance dealer for under $20.