Disinfection of Dental Instruments Contaminated with<i>Streptococcus mutans</i>Using Ozonated Water Alone or Combined with Ultrasound

Abstract

AbstractOzone gas diluted in water has been shown to produce significant results in terms of the elimination of microorganisms. Streptococcus mutans is the etiologic agent of dental caries. Methods using water containing ozone and an ultrasonic cleaner were employed for the disinfection of a curette. Streptococcus mutans was grown in a selective medium. The curette was submitted to disinfection by water containing ozone, by ultrasound, and then both techniques were combined. The results show that either method produced a significant microbial reduction, but the efficacy of both methods combined was greater. This method of disinfection proved to be both viable and cheap.Keywords: OzoneCariesDisinfectionUltrasoundStreptococcus mutans