A study of different modes of disinfection and their effect on bacterial load in dental unit waterlines

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effect of disinfection of dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) on bacterial load using disinfection methods and agents like 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), time-dependent flushing (1 min, 2 min), and using distilled water and tap water as water sources. Materials and Methods: Four dental units were taken: Unit A contained 0.12% CHX, Unit B contained distilled water, Unit C contained tap water, and Unit D included flushing for 1 and 2 min. A total of 36 water samples were collected in 2 weeks. One sample of tap water from basin was taken as study control. One sample each from Unit A, B, and C and 2 samples from Unit D (1 min and 2 min flushing) were taken as baseline samples. Samples were collected three times a week and assessed for total viable count (TVC) and types of organisms present. Results: For Unit A, no growth of microorganisms was observed. Flushing for 1 min and 2 min showed variable TVC. No significant difference was seen in TVC of units B, C, and D in comparison to the baseline samples. Conclusions: It was found that 0.12% CHX was very effective in controlling DUWL contamination. Adhering to a recommended 2 min flushing regimen can reduce the bacterial counts, but is not a reliable means of disinfection.

Dental Healthcare Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…In various countries, dental procedures were banned entirely to prevent viral transmission, thus creating a huge financial implication for dental professionals. The infection control during dental healthcare amid the COVID-19 pandemic is demonstrated in Table 6 [96][97][98][99][100][101]. In terms of the psychological impact of COVID-19 on dental personals, Khanagar et al reported increased mental stress and psychological distress among dentists [102].…”

“…The infection control during dental healthcare amid the COVID-19 pandemic is demonstrated in Table 6 [ 96 , 97 , 98 , 99 , 100 , 101 ]. In terms of the psychological impact of COVID-19 on dental personals, Khanagar et al reported increased mental stress and psychological distress among dentists [ 102 ].…”

Practice Guidelines Addressing Needs of Pakistani Dentists During the COVID-19 Pandemic Part 2: Recommendations

“…Ensuring quality of dental unit water reduces bioburden in aerosols. Dental unit waterlines promote bacterial growth and development of biofilm due to the presence of long narrow-bore tubing, inconsistent flow rates, and the potential for retraction of oral fluids from hand pieces into the unit tubing 32. .…”

Comparação dos meios de cultura e das técnicas de quantificação de bactérias e fungos em reservatórios e tubulações de água de equipos odontológicos

“…A infecção natural pode ocorrer pela inoculação percutânea, inalação ou ingestão, e também é de interesse como uma potencial arma biológica. (LIMMATHUROTSAKUL et al, 2013;MASSEY et al, 2014 , 1986;WILLIAMS et al, 1993;TALL et al, 1995;BARBEAU et al, 1996;SHEPHERD et al, 2001;SZYMAŃSKA, 2007;WATANABE, 2007;UZEL;COGULU;ONCAG, 2008;SINGH;NAGARAJA;HUNGUND, 2013;SZYMAŃSKA;SITKOWSKA, 2013;DALLOLIO et al, 2014 (SINGH et al, 1997;SILVEIRA;HUSAIN, 2008;CASTRO;OLIVEIRA;LOPES, 2013).…”