Cross-infection potential of impression compound

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Microbiology
• Infection control

Background:

• Impression compound is frequently reused in developing countries due to financial constraints.
• The potential for cross-infection from reused dental impression materials is a significant public health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cross-infection risk associated with the clinical reuse of dental impression compound.
• To identify bacterial contamination points on reused impression compound.

Main Methods:

• Microbiological testing of reused impression compound from Fiji.
• Swab sampling to detect bacterial survival points.
• Bacterial identification using Gram staining and biochemical tests.

Main Results:

• Viable microorganisms were transferred from patients' mouths at all impression stages.
• Inadequate disinfection and storage introduced hospital pathogens onto the compound.
• Bacteria persisted on impression compound even after reprocessing attempts.

Conclusions:

• Reuse of impression compound between patients is strongly discouraged.
• Adherence to universal precautions is essential to mitigate cross-contamination risks.
• Financial limitations should not compromise patient safety regarding dental material reuse.