Section 11: Dental Unit Waterlines

Course Progress

It is important to follow the DBC’s guidelines in order to prevent disease and cross-contamination in the DHS.

  1. Background: DUWLs can become colonized with microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. These microorganisms can form a biofilm in the waterline tubing. Patients with weakened immune systems who are exposed to these microorganisms are at risk of infection.
  2. Biofilm in Dental Waterlines: Biofilm is the “slime layer” that develops on surfaces due to the bacterial cells in the water.
  3. Moisture and a suitable surface are all that is required for biofilm to develop. The inside of dental tubing is an especially favorable location of biofilm.
  4. Reducing Bacterial Contamination: There are several methods to use to reduce bacterial contamination of water lines.
    1. Purge (push out) waterlines for two full minutes at the start of each day, and 20 seconds between patients.
    2. Use a self-contained water reservoir system.
    3. Use a self-contained water reservoir system combined with the application of chemical germicides or special inserts, etc, as recommended by the waterline manufacturer.
  5. Dental office water testing is also advised.
    1. All water/irritant delivery for surgical procedures must be delivered in a sterile manner. A separate, sterile water delivery system utilizing sterile solutions MUST be used for all for surgical procedures.