Hygiene in dental practice--Part I: Potential pathogens and possibilities of contamination

In order to ensure adequate reduction of risks of contamination in dental practice, potential pathogens should be known and insight should be gained into possibilities of contamination. The first part of this article presents brief descriptions of the most relevant pathogenic microorganisms such as the causative agents of tuberculosis, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes simplex, hepatitis, AIDS and legionnaires' disease. Possibilities of contamination in dental practice are considered next, with special reference to various ways in which microorganisms can be transmitted: Hand instruments. Rotating instruments, multiple-function syringe and ultrasonic scaler. Instruments used in endodontics. Hands and face. Clothing. Treatment unit. Measures that can be taken in order to minimize the risk of contamination will be discussed in Part II.