Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of clinically relevant bacteria isolated from dental waste and waste workers’ hands, mucosas and coats

Abstract

Infectious dental waste can contain clinically relevant bacteria with important resistance and biofilm profiles. These micro-organisms could be transmitted to waste workers, other professionals and patients if the principles of biosafety measures are neglected. To our knowledge, no study has ever evaluated the microbial characterization and the potential contamination risk of dental infectious waste and waste handlers. The presence of clinically relevant bacteria in the hands and nasal mucosa of waste workers highlights the need for studies in this field to clarify the risk of these pathogens in dental healthcare services, and to stress the need for an efficient waste management.

Dog‐assisted therapy in the dental clinic. Part B. Hazards and assessment of potential risks to the health and safety of the dental therapy dog

“…Hence, the risk of the dog acquiring a communicable disease from a human is low.Some patients, mostly children, may put their fingers in their mouth to show the dentist, for instance, a loose tooth or to point at where it hurts and after that continue to pet the dental therapy dog's legs. The dental therapy dog may later groom his or her leg by licking and thereby end up with human bacteria (virus and fungi).Microorganisms in waste may be transmitted to dogs (and humans) if the principles of biosafety measures are neglected (Tagliaferri et al, ).The exposure to the microorganisms identified in aerosols is not considered a significant occupational hazard for dental care professionals (v). However, much remain unknown (Kobza et al, ), which include estimations of risks to dental therapy dogs to inhalation of contaminated aerosols from human dental treatment. Risk minimisation and proposed best practices •Universal guidelines regarding hygiene in the dental clinic (CDC, ) reduce risk transmission of pathogens for both humans and the dental therapy dog. •All persons in direct contact with the dental therapy dog should adopt frequent hand‐hygiene. •Avoid the presence of a dental therapy dog if the dental patient has a communicable disease.…”

“…Microorganisms in waste may be transmitted to dogs (and humans) if the principles of biosafety measures are neglected (Tagliaferri et al, 2017).…”

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Dental Health Professionals Toward Management of Dental Waste in the Aseer Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

“…There is always a potential risk of transfer of these microorganisms to waste handlers, professionals, and patients in cases of negligence. 5 Chemical and toxic waste produced within the dental clinics mainly comes from the polluted amalgam, lead foil, disinfectant solutions, metals, and other dental materials utilized in the dentistry. 4 , 6 Dental professionals are required to know in depth about the proper management of dental waste in order to minimize the risks of cross infection and effects of toxins released into the environment.…”