An observational study at the Dental School in Umeå, Sweden, and surrounding public dental clinics (PDCs) scrutinised the microbial safety of dental unit water lines (DUWLs) from 2007 to 2016. The study aimed to ensure that microbial levels in DUWLs adhered to the Swedish National Food Agency’s guideline, which mandates less than 100 colony-forming units per millilitre (cfu/mL) of water.
The research employed sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC, marketed as Aquatabs), a disinfectant that releases chlorine into the water, to maintain the microbial count within safe limits. The results over the decade showed a consistent achievement of water quality standards at the Dental School, with more than 89% of samples meeting the criteria in all years except 2013. Public dental clinics exhibited fluctuating adherence, with a low of 62% compliance in 2014, but following educational interventions, compliance improved dramatically to 92% in 2016.
The study highlighted several challenges, such as a general need for more awareness about the risks associated with waterborne infections and the failure to follow prescribed disinfection procedures, often due to constraints in time or resources. To address these issues, the researchers recommended regular follow-ups and detailed checklists to ensure consistent application of water quality protocols. They also suggested that new dental units should be subjected to stringent water quality testing before being put into service and that high-concentration chlorine treatments should be applied periodically during less active periods.
The authors of this study, R. Claesson, S. Edwardsson, and N. Bäckman, emphasise the necessity of strict adherence to disinfection protocols to prevent microbial contamination in dental settings. Their findings and recommendations provide valuable insights into maintaining high hygiene standards in dental care facilities. The complete study can be accessed through its DOI link.
