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Surface contamination in the dental operatory: a comparison over two decades
Henry N Williams1, Ruby Singh, Elaine Romberg
1Department of Oral Craniofacial Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Dental School, Baltimore 21201, USA. HNW001@dental.umaryland.edu
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|April 18, 2003
Summary
Improved clinic design and infection control (IC) practices significantly reduced surface bacterial contamination in 1998 compared to 1976. This highlights the importance of environmental hygiene in dental settings.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Infection Control
- Microbiology
Background:
- Compares surface bacterial contamination in a teaching clinic from 1998 to a 1976 study.
- Investigates the impact of clinic renovation and enhanced infection control (IC) practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if changes in clinic environment and IC protocols reduced bacterial contamination.
- To assess the effectiveness of updated infection control measures over time.
Main Methods:
- Surface samples collected from clinic operatories (light handles, cuffs, sinks, floors) in morning and afternoon.
- Bacterial counts compared between 1998 and 1976 studies.
- Statistical analysis using matched pairs and independent t tests.
Main Results:
- Mean bacterial counts were higher at day's end than morning in both years, significantly only in 1976.
- Significant reductions in bacterial counts observed in 1998 for floors, headrests, light handles, and jacket cuffs compared to 1976.
Conclusions:
- Clinic design, equipment upgrades, and stringent IC practices led to lower surface bacterial contamination in 1998.
- Emphasizes that attention to clinic design and adherence to IC practices reduce microbial contamination.
- This reduction enhances dental practice safety by lowering cross-infection risks.
