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BMC Oral Health

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Open Access 01-12-2023 | Research

Dental unit waterline testing practices: an 11-Year retrospective study

Authors: Juan M. Buitrago, Rob J. Kolbe, Michelle F. Siqueira

Published in: BMC Oral Health | Issue 1/2023

Abstract

Objectives

This retrospective study examined the dental unit waterline (DUWL) testing practices of Saskatchewan dental clinics over a period of 11 years, with an emphasis on their responses after identification of high microbial levels.

Materials and methods

Dental clinics (n = 137) aseptically collected samples of output water from their air/water syringes, handpieces, and ultrasonic scaler lines using Sigma-Aldrich® waterline test kits and delivered them to a quality assurance laboratory. Tests were incubated for seven days at room temperature, and those with heterotrophic plate counts > 500 CFU/mL were reported as failures. Statistical analyses were performed on a database containing 4,093 test results.

Results

Participating clinics submitted an average of 11 DUWL tests per year. Overall, 21% of tests failed, and a moderate positive association (r_s=.52, p < 0.001) was found between clinics’ DUWL testing frequency and failure rate. Only 7% of failed DUWL tests were followed up by collection of a subsequent test within two weeks, of which 47% still exceeded the 500 CFU/mL threshold.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate an association between DUWL testing frequency and detection of unacceptable microbial levels, along with infrequent retesting and often-inadequate intervention after a failed test. This suggests the need for further efforts at the regulatory and educational levels to maintain adequate water quality during dental treatment.

Clinical relevance

Procedural water can become contaminated in DUWLs and endanger patients. Regular DUWL monitoring and evidence-based interventions to treat contaminated systems are necessary to safeguard patient health.

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Title: Dental unit waterline testing practices: an 11-Year retrospective study
Authors: Juan M. Buitrago
Rob J. Kolbe
Michelle F. Siqueira
Publication date: 01-12-2023
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Oral Health / Issue 1/2023
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6831
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-023-03590-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Dental unit waterline testing practices: an 11-Year retrospective study

Abstract

Objectives

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

Clinical relevance

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

Clinical relevance

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