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The article tackles the infection control issue regarding the use of metal bib clips for fastening napkins onto dental patients. Topics discussed are metal bib chains as a source of cross-contamination even after following disinfection procedures, indentations and crevices where bacteria can thrive, corrosion of metal clips after disinfection, and single-use disposable bib holders as a proposed solution to remove any source of bacterial contamination.

The article explores the emergence of infection prevention as part of the dental profession in the U.S. It identifies the roles of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in infection prevention. Several groups have made recommendations for infection prevention, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP).

In order to meet the challenges of safety, time management and asepsis, the dental health care provider must have a plan for infection control, including the use and care of dental instruments and disposables. Following the basic CDC guidelines can help to significantly reduce the risk of microbial transmission. After the patient is dismissed, the operatory must be prepared for the next patient, including the treatment of surfaces and instrument processing. There are a variety of methods available to properly reprocess instruments. Choosing a system that minimizes risk, maximizes productivity and preserves instruments is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article features dental hygienist and educator Jeannette Diaz's portable equipment for dental service. Topics discussed include the Dove Saliva Ejector Valve and Ejector Plus Combo to enhance patient safety, and the Open Wide Mouth Rest props to help patients control tongue and muscle. Also noted is the Elevate Oral Care's Advantage Arrest Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) to arrest decay, buy time, and prevent disease progression.

A chart is presented that shows available disposable prophy angles in the market as of 2014, which includes Zooby from Denticator, Hygienists Choice from Diatech and 2Pro Disposable Prophy Angle from Premier Dental.

The article evaluates the Dove Aero single-use hybrid device from Dove Dental Products.

The article offers a continuing education (CE) course on infection prevention in the dental office. Details pertaining to steps involved in infection prevention cycle are provided along with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), the treatment of clinical contact surfaces, and processing of instruments. Also discussed are aspects related to during patient care, before patient care and after patient care.

The article discusses areas which need to be addressed by the dental offices in order to practice green dentistry, a concept advocated by the Eco-Dentistry Association. Several environmentally-responsible measures under categories including solid waste prevention, pollution prevention, water conservation/quality, and energy conservation, are provided. Also described is the visit to the green office of Dr. Robert Hodous, in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

The article offers information on the Sterile Mini 90 and Mini Ergo disposable prophylaxis angles (DPAs) from disposable dental products and small dental equipment manufacturer Pac-Dent.

The article discusses cross infection risks between patients posed by dirty evacuation valves used in dental offices. Topics discussed include risks posed by growing incidence of backflow from low-volume saliva ejectors and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations on the proper use of saliva ejector. Also mentioned are features of new disposable versions of dental evacuation valves.

The article looks at important factors in deciding selection of a disposable prophy angle (DPA). Topics discussed include ergonomics through features like contra-angle and a diameter that allows holding with less fingertip force, access being linked to the ability of a dentist to see while polishing with a DPA and enhancing DPA safety by pre-sterilization of the burs to manage bacterial growth.

The article reports the various benefits and advantages extended by the use of single-use and disposable devices to a dental practice. The single-use items should not be reused, as they are made of cheap material and help in minimizing patient-to-patient contamination. The additional advantages of using items like single-use sterilization pouches, dental carpules and single-use masks are also highlighted. INSETS: CDC FOCUS ON SINGLE-USE DEVICES;Going Green.

The article discusses the spread of infection that occurs on account of reusable bib holders. It states that while bibs are disposable, the bib holders act as a potential source of cross-contamination. The article also mentions studies by Noel Kelsh, the University of North Carolina, and Dr. John Molinari respectively, which examined the chain of infection caused due to reusable bib holders.