CHAPTER 24:DENTAL UNIT WATERLINES Flashcards
How many waterborne bacteria are there in community water (tap water)
less than 500 CFU (colony-forming units)
what is biofilm
bacterial cells and other microbes that stick to surfaces and form a protective layer of slime
Slime-producing bacterial communities that can harbor fungi, algae, and protozoa
planktonic
free floating bacteria
what is the reccomended way to flush DUWL
20-30 seconds between each patients and every morning for 3 mins.
can flushing alone remove biofilm?
No, flushing alone will not remove biofilm
what kind of water must be used to surgical procedures where bone must be exposed?
sterile water ONLY
2 methods where chemicals are used to help control biofilm
periodic “shock” treatment - ex: flushing DUWL with chemicals and leaving it over night
continous application- ex:using tablets in water safe for human use.
what is backflow?
backflow from low volume saliva ejectors happen when the pressure in the patients mouth is less than that in the evacuator.
it creates a vacuum like suction from the waterline back into the patient’s mouth
why is backflow harmful?
potential source of cross contamination.
