[The need and possibility for disinfecting impressions in orthodontics (a review of the literature)].

Reviews the data on a high risk of viral and bacterial infection of dentists in connection with the high prevalence of AIDS and viral hepatitis B and on the possibility of infection of dental patients and the staff by microorganisms transfer on the impressions. Presents the present-day methods and means for disinfection of the impression material. Emphasizes inadequate knowledge of the dentists about the virucidal efficacy and the possibility of the impressions changing their properties in disinfection, which fact results in inaccuracy of the ready articles.