Meaning is perception

Article Abstract:

The American Dental Association (ADA) should make a concerted effort to develop, before the year 2000, dental equipment that will deliver uncontaminated water. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the biologically contaminated films that coat dental unit water lines (DUWLs) have led to infections. Although scientific evidence does not suggest a general health hazard, the knowledge that such biofilms exist weakens patients' confidence in the safety of a dental visit. The ADA has taken an active role in addressing the threat of biofilms, with the goal of providing pure water by 2000. However, the ADA should fund research for developing equipment and techniques that will eliminate biofilms sooner. Research should also definitively determine the risks of DUWL contamination and suggest methods for preventing backflow of dental water, which can cause transmission of disease from one patient to another.

Standards, Water quality, Dental equipment and supplies, Dental equipment, Dental supplies

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HIV update: misinformation persists

Article Abstract:

Many dentists and patients mistakenly believe they have a high risk of contracting HIV infection from dental procedures. In reality, studies have shown that the risk of contracting HIV infection from a needlestick injury or other exposure to body fluids is less than one percent. There are only two documented cases of a health care professional transmitting HIV to a patient. In 1999, a retired dentist committed suicide after being threatened with a lawsuit by a group of parents. The parents were concerned because the dentist did not change gloves after examining each child in a mass screening of elementary school children.

HIV infection, HIV infections, HIV (Viruses), HIV, Dental care, Disease transmission, Public opinion, Oral hygiene

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Much ado about nothing

Article Abstract:

The American Dental Association (ADA) takes exception to an FDA regulation requiring a warning label on tubes of toothpaste that contain fluoride. The label urges consumers to see a doctor of poison control center if they swallow large amounts of fluoride toothpaste. This may cause consumers to be even more skeptical about the benefits of fluoride. A surveillance system set up by the ADA to monitor adverse reactions to fluoride toothpaste has found no evidence for severe reactions. Such labels do not appear on other toxic substances such as chewing tobacco.

Laws, regulations and rules, Labeling, United States. Food and Drug Administration, Oral hygiene products, Fluorides, Dentifrices

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