title: Possibility of cross-contamination between dental patients by means of the saliva ejector.
abstract: Concern about cross-contamination between dental patients prompted investigation of current suctioning practices. The possibility of the suck-back phenomenon and the presence of oral bacteria in vacuum lines were studied, and dental offices were surveyed concerning the use and disinfection of suction equipment.
authors.affiliation: Academy Dental Group, Baker Center, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Watson
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Whitehouse
mesh_terms: D003428:Cross Infection / Q000209:etiology*; D003748:Dental Equipment / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004203:Disinfection; D004866:Equipment Contamination; D006801:Humans; D012463:Saliva; D013396:Suction / Q000295:instrumentation*