(Newswire.net — May 3, 2013) Fremont, CA — Renowned Fremont dentist Dr. Sheila Dobee, DDS, was interviewed on The Dentistry iQ Network for an online article that discusses the use of antimicrobial textiles in dental uniforms to limit cross contamination and bioburden in dental facilities.
In the article dated January 11, Dr. Dobee noted that splashes caused by the use of high-speed rotating instruments in dental procedures, which leads to the formation of microbial aerosols, are unavoidable but should never be overlooked.
“When you’re using the drill, you think that everything is contained in that area,” she said. “But because you are using high pressure, the coverage can spread wildly, with particles all over clothing, tools, and other equipment.”
Bioburden is defined as the number of bacteria living on a surface before it is sterilized. Research shows that there are many potential sources of cross contamination even when aseptic practices are properly observed.
To counter this, many measures are taken to reduce the bioburden in patient rooms and to the other parts of the practice, which include the wearing and utilization of antimicrobial scrubs and lab coats as well as the adoption of antimicrobial surfaces. Copper coatings on frequently touched hard surfaces, such as tables and doorknobs, have also proven to be effective in reducing microbial burden, and similar techniques are being undertaken for fabrics.
“Antimicrobial uniforms would of course not change any of our cross contamination protocols, but they would enhance them greatly,” Dr. Dobee said. “We want to do everything we can to protect everyone in the office, including staff and patients.”
To learn more about Dr. Dobee or see the complete version of the published article, visit www.yourcaringdentist.com.
About Sheila Dobee, DDS, Inc.
Sheila Dobee, DDS, heads Your Caring Dentist, one of the leading Fremont family dentistry practices in the area. She is a former president of the Southern Alameda Dental Society and was among the select few physicians honored with the prestigious Patients’ Choice Award for 2012.
Sheila Dobee DDS Inc.
4541 Mattos Dr.Fremont CA 94536
510.793.8515