Detecting Legionella pneumophila in water systems: a comparison of various dental units

Article Abstract:

Most dental unit water systems do not appear to harbor the Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila) bacterium, although some models seem prone to high levels of contamination. L. pneumophila is spread by aerosol droplets from contaminated water systems and is the most common cause of Legionnaire's disease. During a 44-month period, researchers regularly cultured water samples from the high-speed outlets and air/water syringes in 194 dental units. Forty-nine dental units were positive for L. pneumophila during the testing period. Of these, most had low contamination levels, although seven had consistently high numbers of the bacterium. Contamination was more common in the air/water syringes than in the high-speed outlets. One dental unit model called the Plan Meca 2000 was particularly susceptible to high-level contamination and required more frequent decontamination than other models.

Water, Aquatic microbiology, Marine bacteria, Contamination, Dental equipment and supplies, Dental equipment, Dental supplies, Legionella pneumophila

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Dental considerations and treatment of the oncology patient receiving radiation therapy

Article Abstract:

Cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy of the head and neck may develop significant oral and dental disease. Radiation therapy can promote tooth decay by reducing salivation, impair blood flow to jaw bones, induce inflammation, and reduce the sense of taste. Patients receiving radiation therapy require aggressive dental care and careful planning to minimize the oral complications of radiation. The physical and psychological effects of radiation treatment may reduce compliance with oral care regimens. Daily fluoride treatments and frequent dental visits may be indicated.

Health aspects, Methods, Complications and side effects, Cancer patients, Radiotherapy, Preventive dentistry

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