An in vitro study on microbial content on the dental cast

Background: A lot of oral and nasopharyngeal microorganism are present on the dental cast. The amount of microorganisms that are found in the oral fluids ranges from 4 millions to 5 billions per 1 milliliter, and that in dental plaque ranges from 10 and 1000 billions per 1 gram. These microorganisms survive on the dental cast even after removing then from the impression material and cause threat to the health of dental practitioner and thus the patients. Though the dental casts does not have suitable environment for the multiplication of the inhabiting microorganisms, individual protective measures like wearing gloves and protective goggles should be put into practise in order to avoid contamination of dental impressions and casts with microbes and their transmission. Aim: The aim is to investigate the microbial content on the dental cast. Materials and Methods: The sample size of 10 was chosen and the sample were collected aseptically by rotating sterile cotton swabs moistened with peptone water over the dental cast that are used in the dental clinics. Conclusion: Various methods to prevent cross-contamination in dental clinics are used. Most significant methods of disinfecting impressions is using sodium hypochlorite which is a powerful disinfectant against bacteria and viruses and usage of glutaraldehyde.