Abstract

INCONSPICUOUS SURFACE MICROORANISMS IN DENTAL SETUP

Dr. Pradeep P. R., Dr. Akshata M. H.*, Dr. Ananthakrishna S., Dr. Sujatha K., Dr. Iffath Hussain and Dr. Yuva Rani P.

ABSTRACT

Background: Reduced infection rates for patients appear to be linked to environmental cleaning, with or without disinfectants. This hazard is not limited to hospital settings, but it applies to dental clinics also. In fact, dental personnel and patients, particularly immunocompromised persons, are at risk for infection with pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. Case reports have demonstrated the transmission of pathogens, such as the hepatitis B virus, within a dental set¬up. Aerosols produced during drilling procedures with modern high-¬speed rotating instruments can spread oral microorganisms to exposed surfaces as far as two meters. Microorganisms, including nosocomial pathogens, may survive on inanimate surfaces up to several months and they may serve as a reservoir for cross ¬contamination. Aim and Objective: To determine the level of clinical microbial contamination in the dental setup. Materials and Method: Swabs were collected from different dental operational unit over a period of three weeks. Samples are collected by sterile swabs before beginning of patient treatment and at the end of day. The tubes containing the swabs were transferred to the microbiology laboratory where the culture growth was carried out with the Macconkey agar and Nutrient agar. Results: The contaminated areas in the dental clinical environment included the area behind the chair where 21 out of 27 samples (77.7%) had positive bacterial growth. This was followed by the chair side area and area away from the chair. Staphylococcus aures were commonly isolated. Conclusion: The level of microbial contamination reduced after the disinfection protocols were followed. Continuous monitoring of surface microbial contamination may help to identify problematic sites and to improve the hygiene level in a dental setting.

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