Bacterial Contamination of Equine Dentistry Equipment-Effect of Cleaning and Disinfection.

This research investigates the degree of bacterial contamination in equine dentistry equipment and assesses the effectiveness of current cleaning and disinfection methods. The findings reveal that, despite decontamination processes, these tools often remain bacterially contaminated, highlighting the need for improved infection prevention control measures in equine dentistry.

About the Study

• The study provides a detailed examination of the level of bacterial contamination on equine dentistry tools, focusing particularly on handpieces and head supports. These devices are commonly borrowed from human dentistry practices and are thus subjected to cleaning and disinfection measures aimed to prevent the spread of infectious microorganisms.
• With the evolution of equine dentistry, the tools that were once exclusive for humans are now being used on horses. However, these tools are challenging to decontaminate, which presents significant risks of infections spreading. This study ascertains the importance of developing effective infection prevention and control (IPC) measures specific to equine dentistry.

Methodology

• The researchers sampled used handpieces and dummies (equipment not used during dental procedures, representing environmental bacterial contamination) and the head support each day before the first patient, following each treatment, and after decontamination.
• Sampling involved using 3M Swab Samplers for the equipment and dip slides for the head support in an effort to gauge the level of microbial contamination.
• The aim was to detect bacterial load after dental procedures and after decontamination to evaluate the effectiveness of these measures.

Findings

• The findings revealed that a high bacterial load was often detected on the used handpieces, dummies, and the head support after dental procedures.
• Even following decontamination, the handpieces did not fulfill the criteria for high-level disinfected equipment.
• The bacterial load was significantly reduced on the head support in all but one instance post-decontamination.

Implications

• The findings highlight the urgent need for robust, evidence-based guidelines for hygiene in equine dentistry to ensure the decrease in the risk of spreading infectious microorganisms across patients, facilities, and stables.
• Considering the challenges in decontaminating dental handpieces, it is clear that more effective IPC measures need to be developed and implemented.
• Further studies in this direction would greatly contribute to improving patient safety in equine dentistry by ensuring that the equipment used is properly sterilized and free from potentially harmful microorganisms.