Protective Effect of 0.1% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution Pre-Rinse against Oral Bacteria and Bacterial Aerosol Contamination during Ultrasonic Scaling

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the antibacterial effect of 0.1% chlorhexidine gluconate solution (CGS) against oral microorganism and to confirm contamination of personal protective equipment and environment of dental clinic by bacterial aerosol during ultrasonic scaling. Methods: Scaling was performed by a dental hygienist after 0.1% CGS pre-rinse to a total of 18 healthy subjects without oral inflammation. Samples were taken from personal protective equipment and environment to confirm contamination by bacterial aerosol. Results: The most contaminated area with bacterial aerosol was the dental hole towel of patient and followed by the chest, cap, gloves, and dental apron of personal protective equipment. The areas with high CGS pre-rinse effect after scaling were cap, gloves, ultrasonic scaler handle, and dental hole towel. Conclusions: 0.1% CGS pre-rinse is an effective method to consistently reduce the risk of periodontitis and contamination by bacterial aerosol in dental treatment including scaling.