Safely going home: avoiding cross-contamination

Dentistry often involves procedures that employ 3-way syringes, high-speed handpieces and ultrasonic scalers, the use of which can generate aerosols, droplets and spatter containing patients' blood, plaque, saliva and tooth and dental materials. This increases the chances for cross-contamination.^1,2

A variety of processes can be used to minimize splashing, spraying, spattering and droplet formation. Examples include:

The possibility of aerosol and spray contamination requires both environmental and practitioner protection. This would include clinical surface barriers (covers) and proper environmental disinfection. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, protective eyewear and gowns, reduces exposure of skin, mucous membranes and non-clinical attire.^1,2

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a primary source of energy and is present in all living, metabolically active cells, including bacteria, fungi and protozoa. The ATP bioluminescence assay is a simple, rapid, highly sensitive technique used to quantify ATP levels. It is based on a luciferin-luciferase reaction. A specialized swab is used to sample a standardized surface area, which is then analysed using a portable hand-held luminometer. The total amount of ATP, both microbial and non-microbial, is quantified and expressed as relative light units. Levels of ATP bioluminescence have been correlated with bacterial counts.³