Hidden Bacteria
Dateline: 08/26/99
Have you ever been reluctant about going to the dentist? Wondered if the dental equipment had been properly cleaned? Researchers at the LSU Agricultural Center have developed a combination of chemicals that destroy bacteria in hard to reach places in dental equipment.
Bacteria are able to survive and grow in almost any environment. They thrive in moist conditions, especially conditions of static water. For this reason bacteria are often found inside dental equipment. The newly developed chemical solution works by destroying bacterial biofilm. Biofilm is a substance that is secreted by bacteria and is used as a protective barrier. Once this barrier is destroyed the bacteria can then be killed with a simple disinfectant.
Bacterial Biofilm
Copyright Buckman Laboratories International, Inc.
The new chemical solution can be placed into the water system that is used to cleanse dental equipment. The treatment is very effective and works in minutes. Current methods for cleaning the insides of dental equipment are not effective. The insides of the tubes and pipes are so narrow that they can not be scrubbed and properly cleaned or disinfected. Additional sterilization techniques such as autoclaving are impractical because the tubes are plastic and would melt.
Researchers say that their chemical solution can be used in a variety of ways. The solution can be sprayed on any surface to control bacteria. The researchers are currently seeking ways to utilize this solution in poultry processing.
What do you think? Are there other ways that this new chemical solution can be utilized? Are there health implications to the current methods for cleaning dental equipment? Do you feel safe going to your dentist? Come on over to the Biology Forum to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions. 'Til next time...
For additional information see:
- Researcher Finds Way To Kill Bacteria In Tiny Places
News release from the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. - Bacteriology NetLinks
Links and information pertaining to bacteria. - Microbiology NetLinks
Links and information pertaining to microbiology.
