SALIVA CONTAMINATION: Achieving Isolation to Avoid its Adverse Effects

Categories: Infection Prevention

Author(s): Christopher Canizares DMD

Course Type: Self-instruction journal and web based activity

Target Audience: Dental Assistants, Dental Hygienist, Dentists from novice to advanced

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Educational Objectives

Achieving Isolation to Avoid Adverse Effects of Saliva Contamination 

The goal of this course is to provide information on best methods for preventing saliva contamination in dental, orthodontic and endodontic procedures. After completing this article, the reader will:

1. Understand some of the natural benefits of saliva
2. Understand how salivary contamination can adversely affect
restorations and root canals
3. Have learned about various methods of moisture contamination
control
4. Understand the pros/cons of various methods of moisture control
5. Recognize clinical implications in the field of pediatric dentistry
and orthodontics.

Abstract

Despite its importance for dental health and normal digestive function, saliva can have an adverse effect on restorative materials and dental procedures. To prevent a negative outcome, care must be taken to avoid contamination by saliva. Practitioners have a number of methods for controlling saliva, and new systems and materials are currently in development. Methods for preventing saliva contamination vary widely amongst practitioners, and across specialties, for logistical reasons. Research comparing the merits of different methods can yield ambiguous results. Therefore, more research is needed.

COMMERCIAL SUPPORTER: This course has been made possible through an unrestricted educational grant from Zyris.