title: Continuing investigation and controversy regarding risk of transmission of infection via dental handpieces.
abstract: Current epidemiologic evidence indicates that infectious diseases, specifically blood-borne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV, are not transmitted from patient to patient via dental instruments. However, ongoing laboratory investigations suggest that potential pathogens may be retained within dental handpieces, creating a theoretical risk of cross infection. Controversy regarding certain laboratory study results and the clinical implications of these studies continues. Guidelines and regulations for infection control should be rational, and based on a realistic response to a documented risk. Dental professionals should be aware of continuing research focusing on these issues.
authors: Department of Dentistry, Vancouver Hospital and Health Sciences Centre, B.C., Canada.
authors: J B
authors: JB
authors: Epstein
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Rea
authors: C H
authors: CH
authors: Sherlock
authors: R G
authors: RG
authors: Mathias
mesh_terms: D017848:Blood-Borne Pathogens; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000635:transmission; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000635:transmission*; D003762:Dental Instruments; D018865:Dental Research; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000635:transmission; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000635:transmission; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D012307:Risk Factors