[Cross contamination: spatters, aerosols, and biofilm in dental practices]

During treatment in dental practices, drops of different sizes are produced (spats and aerosols). Microorganisms in these drops are of human origin or originate from the water in the dental unit. Therefore, these drops can contribute to cross contamination in dental practices. Large drops settle quickly, while smaller drops can remain suspended in the air for a longer period of time. The highest level of contamination is found in the immediate vicinity of the source (the patient's mouth). Further away from the source and after stopping drop producing activities, the level of contamination in the air is comparable to control circumstances. Studies into the spread of viruses via this route in the dental practice have not yet been conducted. The risk of catching an infectious disease in the dental practice seems limited, but can be high in the case of a virulent microorganism, when the circumstances for spread of the virus are favorable, or if the recipient is immunocompromised.