Ultrasonic Cleaners.

The selection of an ultrasonic cleaner for use in Air Force dental facilities depends on several factors. Determining the primary use of the unit prior to purchase is important because different units may be better suited to different tasks. Traditionally, dental laboratories use ultrasonic cleaners to remove cements, polishing compounds, and waxes from prostheses. These units, however, can also be used to clean contaminated dental instruments, thus reducing the chances of cross-contamination. Hinged instruments and aspirator tips often have foreign material build up in areas inaccessible or difficult to clean. According to the American Dental Association, all practical methods of sterilization or disinfection can be overchallenged by soiled or heavily contaminated instruments. Because they reduce the likelihood of injury and infection of the hands, ultrasonic cleaners are safer than manual scrubbing. They are 16 times more effective in their cleaning ability and significantly reduce the aerosolization of potentially pathogenic organisms during the instrument-cleaning process. The purpose of this report is to help base dental surgeons decide which ultrasonic cleaners will best suit their needs. All units were evaluated with the concept of dental treatment room use. Author