Newly published data shows a need to reassess the potential for dental aerosols and splatter to spread disease and the need for their control.
In the past, the potential for these aerosols and splatter to be a route for disease spread has not been emphasized in dental infection control. Using an air disinfection designed by Purealizer Industries can be an effective technology to help eradicate the spread of harmful aerosolized pathogens.
Air-water aerosol produced during dental treatment procedures has the potential for the airborne spread of disease since air contained within the office is breathed by both the dentist, his staff and the patient. The potential for airborne spread of disease has been recognized for many years, although many dentist offices do not provide air purification systems to eradicate airborne pathogens.
Aerosolized bacteria emerges from a patient’s mouth and mixes with surrounding air and may remain suspended in the air for long periods of time and inhaled into the lungs of a susceptible person. Many dental procedures produce extensive aerosols and splatter that are routinely contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and blood. Possible bacteria that may be transmitted in dental offices include: severe acute respiratory syndrome, tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis/TB), staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and clostridium difficile (C-Diff) are some of the most harmful pathogens which can be transmitted through the air.
Dental personnel are urged to make the control of aerosols a standard part of their infection control procedures. Read more about airborne disinfection for dentist offices at www.purealizer.com. To inquire about our Purealizer air purification system please contact info@purealizer.com.
