Microbial Contaminations of Ultrasonic Scalers, High-Speed Handpieces and Water Syringe Lines / 대한치주과학회지

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to evaluate various methods of decontamination of ultrasonic scalers, high-speed handpieces and air-water syringes in dental equipments. Eimination of possible sources of microbial infection in dental operatories should be of primary importance. Microbial contamination levels of high speed handpieces, air-water syringes and ultrasonic scalers of 11 dental units in Seoul National University Hospital were evaluated after flushing the lines, alcohol sponge rubbing, or soaking in 0.1% chlorhexidine for 1,3 and 5 minutes. The result suggests that flushing the lines or soaking the tips in 0.1% chlorhexidine before use of the water systems may reduce the microbial levels. Soaking in 0.1% chlorhexidine for 5 minutes was most effective in reducing bacterial contamination.