Infection Control · single question
What are the CDC recommendations for dental unit waterline flushing?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Flush for a minimum of 20-30 seconds after each patient and at the beginning of the clinic day
Flush 20-30 seconds after each patient AND at the beginning of the clinic day (A) per CDC guidelines. This reduces microbial contamination in dental unit waterlines (DUWLs).
• Why DUWLs get contaminated: Long, narrow-bore tubing + low flow rates create ideal conditions for biofilm formation. Biofilm releases bacteria (including Legionella, Pseudomonas) into water used during treatment.
• CDC recommends water quality of <500 CFU/mL for non-surgical procedures (same as safe drinking water standards).
• Additional measures: use of waterline treatment products (tablets, shock treatments), anti-retraction valves on handpieces, and periodic monitoring/testing of water quality.
• Sterile water or sterile saline REQUIRED for surgical procedures involving bone (implants, extractions with bone removal).
• Why DUWLs get contaminated: Long, narrow-bore tubing + low flow rates create ideal conditions for biofilm formation. Biofilm releases bacteria (including Legionella, Pseudomonas) into water used during treatment.
• CDC recommends water quality of <500 CFU/mL for non-surgical procedures (same as safe drinking water standards).
• Additional measures: use of waterline treatment products (tablets, shock treatments), anti-retraction valves on handpieces, and periodic monitoring/testing of water quality.
• Sterile water or sterile saline REQUIRED for surgical procedures involving bone (implants, extractions with bone removal).
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