Identification of pathogens in the condensates from air pressure systems in dental offices

We examined the air pressure systems in 23 dental offices and found growth of Group A Streptococci and/or Staphylococcus Aureus in 91 percent of them. We also examined nine handpiece lines from these 23 offices and found growth of pathogens in 78 percent of them. Correlation of the growth found in the handpiece lines and the growth found in the air pressure tanks needs further study to determine if an interrelationship exists between these two areas of contamination. However, contamination does exist in both areas and these areas deliver contaminated air under pressure to the oral environment. We need to consider mechanisms for filter entrapment or sterilization of these pathogens.