Decreasing Aerosol Contamination and Prevention of Cross Infection due to Ultrasonic Scaling

The oral cavity provides a unique ecosystem for the growth of bacteria. About 150 billion microorganisms are found in 1g of material of the gingival crevice of a patient with poor oral hygiene and over 6 billion present in 1ml of saliva. These microorganisms are dispersed into the surrounding environment through aerosol and splatter that is produce during ultrasonic scaling. Dental health care workers and patients come in contact with these microorganisms every day and are susceptible to infections by pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi. Aerosol and splatter are an occupational hazard that lacks awareness. Therefore it is important to know and practice the methods of decreasing aerosol contamination and prevention of infection spread. Using pre-procedural antiseptic mouthwash, high volume evacuation, personal protective equipment, adequate immunization of health care workers, as well as proper ventilation and airflow of a dental operatory are the universal precautions that need to be followed for infection control and prevention of disease transmission between patients and dental health care workers.