Evaluation of microbial contamination of extraction forceps prior to dental extractions

Original Research

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the microbial contamination on extraction forceps prior to dental extraction. Introduction: Nosocomial infections or hospital acquired infections are most commonly affecting the patients. Transmission of diseases from one patient to another can occur as a result of reusing instruments without proper disinfection or sterilisation. Using an infected instrument foes not only affect patients but also dentist and dental staff by producing cross infection like Hepatitis B¹ and C², tuberculosis³, HIV, infective endocarditis etc. Especially when instrument involves blood contact like extraction forceps, elevators, endodontic files, burs etc. It is important sterilize instruments properly to avoid cross contamination and infection spread.

Materials and method: A sample size of 20 extraction forceps is included. Swabs are collected immediately prior to extraction and cultured in nutrient agar. Data was collected and statistically analysed.

Results: The average colony count of 6.1 CFU is seen in total 20 samples taken. The colony count is quite low suggestive of good sterilization protocol followed by the institution.

Conclusion: Although there was minimal number of colony forming unit in the extraction forceps. There is high chance that the organism can be pathogenic and can create many postoperative complications like infective endocarditis, abscess, dry socket etc. As said prevention is better than cure. It is better to maintain a good sterilization protocol which will reduce the risk of cross contamination and maintain good asepsis.