Key Points
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Highlights the importance of the appropriate selection of detergents for instrument cleaning in optimizing the efficacy of the cleaning process, staff safety and cost-effectiveness.
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Discusses the challenges in obtaining detailed information to support procurement decisions for detergents.
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Emphasizes that benchmarking for detergent efficacy would be beneficial to general dental practitioners.
Abstract
Aim To review physico-chemical data supplied for commercially available detergents marketed for manual and/or ultrasonic cleansing of reusable dental instruments.
Method Manufacturers/suppliers of commercially available detergents for manual or ultrasonic cleaning of dental instruments within primary dental care were invited to supply product information. A structured questionnaire requested details on a range of physical and chemical properties for each detergent.
Results Seventeen detergent manufacturers/suppliers, encompassing 31 commercially available detergents were identified. Ten of the 17 manufacturers provided information on 23 (74%) of the detergent formulations. Nine detergents were of neutral pH, ten mild alkalis (pH 7.5-10.5) and four strong alkalis (pH >10.5). Sixteen detergents were recommended for ultrasonic and manual cleaning, four stated ultrasonic use and three manual only. Ten detergents cited enzymatic activity as their main mode of action, but only six manufacturers provided detailed information. Four detergents recommended by manufacturers as suitable for manual washing had a strong alkaline pH (>10.5), presenting chemical hazards to users. Two strong alkaline detergents did not warn users of potential adverse effects of such alkaline solutions (corrosion) upon aluminium containing instruments. Only one detergent had investigated the potential toxicity of detergent residuals remaining on instruments after reprocessing.
Conclusion It has proven challenging to collate physico-chemical data on detergents suitable for use in manual and/or ultrasonic cleaning of dental instruments in general dental practice. Standardisation of information on the nature and efficacy of dental detergents in a readily accessible form would be beneficial to dental practice.
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Many thanks to G. Irvine and A. Conacher for their contributions to format and questionnaire design.
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Calvert, G., Murray, C., Smith, A. et al. Availability of manufacturers' information on efficacy and compatibility of detergents used for cleaning dental instruments. Br Dent J 212, E16 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.419
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.419
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