Many procedures in dentistry produce aerosols, or fine particals in the air that can contain bacteria and viruses. Because these particles are derived from the interactions of our instruments while working on people, we need to be especially careful that we eradicate and cleanse the air. For this we use a combination of air filtration and misters to keep our patients and our staff safe.
Each room has its own medical grade true HEPA air filter (MERV17). These filters can remove 99.99% of airborne particulates at 0.3 microns, 98.79% at 0.1 microns and 97.34% at 0.03 microns (30 nanometers). The higher HEPA filter efficiency combined with the high CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) makes this a very effective way to remove airborn particles generated by our procedures. For more information about the sciece of these filters see
this link.
In our dental office, ellimination of aerosols is our main concern. When a patient leaves, our equipement in the rooms is sprayed down and the room sits for the recomended time to allow any aerosols to settle. We go further with this process, by investing in cold aerosolizers and mist the air with HOCL, a non toxic, EPA registered disinfectant and sanitizer. This helps to ensure that any pathogens in the air are neutralized.
Our office has invested in several electrolysis systems to produce HOCL (Hypochlorous Acid). We use HOCL on top of our regular disinfectants in many different ways (spray, aerosolized) in order to safely disinfect our office. These systems are EPA approved for combatting the COVID-19 virus.
HOCL is nontoxic to humans. In nature, HOCL is made by our very own white blood cells to help destroy pathogens. Although HOCL is a weak acid (similar to citrus juice) it is a very powerful oxidant that is effective against invading bacteria, fungi, and viruses.