Hygiene in dental practice. Part II: Measures to reduce the risk of contamination.

On the basis of the description of potential pathogens and possibilities of contamination during dental treatment in Part I, Part II discusses several measures to be taken, in order to reduce the risk of contamination for patients as well as for dental personnel. The hygienic measures mostly concern the treatment of patients, including some unidentified infected patients. In this context, direct and indirect behavior of dental personnel, protective measures, domestic cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization are discussed in detail. In addition, possible supplementary measures to be taken in the treatment of identified infected patients are discussed, with special reference to hepatitis B and HIV. Finally, hygienic measures to protect personnel not directly involved in dental treatment are discussed.