Related Experiment Videos
Infection control update: beware of the ragwheel
Journal - Connecticut State Dental Association
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Infection control in dental labs is crucial, especially concerning ragwheels used with pumice. These tools can transmit disease, highlighting the need for updated laboratory infection control guidelines to protect patients and dental professionals.
Area of Science:
- Dental infection control
- Microbiology
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Traditional dental infection control focused on the operatory, neglecting the dental laboratory.
- The dental laboratory is a potential source of disease transmission.
- Lathes and associated tools like ragwheels are frequently used in dental labs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbial contamination of ragwheels used in dental laboratories.
- To assess the infection control risks associated with ragwheel use.
- To emphasize the necessity of specific infection control guidelines for dental laboratories.
Main Methods:
- Collection of ragwheel and pumice samples from dental laboratory lathes.
- Microbiological culturing of collected samples to identify microbial presence.
- Analysis of microbial load and types to determine potential infection risks.
Main Results:
- Ragwheels and pumice samples showed significant microbial contamination.
- The study identified potential pathogens transmissible from ragwheels.
- Results indicated a substantial risk of disease transmission to patients and operators.
Conclusions:
- Ragwheels used in dental laboratories pose a significant infection risk.
- Current infection control practices are insufficient for dental laboratories.
- Updated infection control guidelines specifically for dental laboratories are urgently needed.