[Evaluation of surface disinfectants utilized in dentistry]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Microbiology
• Infection Control

Background:

• Surface disinfection is crucial in dental settings to prevent cross-contamination.
• Evaluating the efficacy of common dental surface disinfectants is essential for maintaining a sterile environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of four dental surface disinfectants: 77 degrees GL alcohol, phenolic compound (Duplofen), iodophor (PVP-I), and 77 degrees GL alcohol with 5% chlorhexidine.
• To assess microbial reduction on common dental equipment surfaces using the spray-wipe-spray method.

Main Methods:

• Four dental surfaces (carter, washbasin, headrest, reflector) were treated with disinfectants.
• Surface samples were collected using agar plates for microbial enumeration (mutans streptococci, Candida, gram-negative bacteria, total microorganisms).
• Statistical analysis using Student's t test compared mean microbial counts (ufc/plate).

Main Results:

• 77 degrees GL alcohol with 5% chlorhexidine demonstrated the highest efficacy, particularly against gram-positive bacteria.
• Iodophor (PVP-I) and phenolic compounds (Duplofen) also achieved significant microbial reduction.
• 77 degrees GL alcohol, while less effective, still provided a statistically significant reduction in microbial load.

Conclusions:

• Combination of 77 degrees GL alcohol with 5% chlorhexidine is a highly effective dental surface disinfectant.
• Iodophor and phenolic compounds are viable alternatives for microbial reduction in dental offices.
• Even 77 degrees GL alcohol alone offers some benefit in reducing surface microorganisms.