How to choose disinfecting solutions?

How to choose disinfecting solutions?

In a dental practice, infection control is an absolute priority. Surfaces, non-immersible medical devices, heat-sensitive instruments, and staff hands must be disinfected thoroughly. With a wide range of products available, how can you be sure you're making the right choice? This guide, based on official recommendations, will help you select the appropriate disinfectants for each use.

1. Targeted disinfection based on risk

Disinfection involves eliminating or inactivating pathogenic microorganisms on a surface or device. The choice of disinfectant depends on three key factors:

Level of infection risk (critical, semi-critical, or non-critical, according to the Spaulding classification)

Type of surface or instrument (reusable instruments, surfaces, hands, etc.)

Compatibility with materials and equipment

Spaulding classification:

Type of item

Risk level

Examples

Required treatment

Critical

High

Surgical instruments

Sterilization

Semi-critical

Moderate

Mirrors, probes, turbines

High-level disinfection / sterilization

Non-critical

Low

Dental chairs, work surfaces

Low- or intermediate-level disinfection

2. Essential properties of a good disinfectant

A disinfectant used in a dental environment must meet several regulatory and practical criteria:

Microbiological efficacy: bactericidal, fungicidal, virucidal, mycobactericidal (per EN 1040, EN 1275, EN 14476, etc.)

Short contact time, compatible with clinical workflow

Broad-spectrum action

Material compatibility (to prevent corrosion or degradation)

Non-toxic and non-allergenic for personnel

Traceability and regulatory compliance (CE-marked product with a safety data sheet – SDS)

💡 Tip: Use multi-enzymatic disinfectants for instruments contaminated with organic matter, and alcohol-free formulations for delicate surfaces.

3. Main categories of disinfectants

a. Instrument disinfectants

Used for reusable medical devices prior to sterilization. Must be bactericidal, fungicidal, virucidal, and ideally tuberculocidal.

Formulas: glutaraldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds

Standards: EN 13727, EN 14561

b. Surface disinfectants

Used between patients on chairs, worktops, and operating lights. Must act quickly (≤ 5 minutes).

Formulas: isopropyl alcohol, ammonium chlorides, hydrogen peroxide

Standard: EN 13697

c. Hand disinfectants

Hydroalcoholic solution or gel for hand antisepsis (not simple soap).

Must comply with: EN 1500

d. Disinfectants for suction and internal systems

Non-foaming products specifically designed to decontaminate suction systems without damaging them. Use biodegradable solutions compatible with your equipment.

4. Reading the label: an essential habit

Before purchasing, always check:

The listed European standards

Microbiological activity spectrum

Contact time

Conditions of use (temperature, dilution, compatibility)

Expiration date and safety instructions

5. Practical recommendations

Establish a validated disinfection protocol in the practice

Train staff in the correct use of each product

Never mix two different disinfectants

Regularly check expiry dates and container condition

Use measuring equipment for concentrated products

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