Assessment Of Surface Contamination In Dental Clinics With Candida Albicans And Staphylococcus Aureus, And Temporal Analysis Of Contamination Patterns

Microbial contamination of dental equipment surfaces is a major challenge in controlling hospital-acquired infections. Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are opportunistic microorganisms that can survive on clinical surfaces, particularly dental unit surfaces, and contribute to cross-contamination. This study aimed to investigate the level of contamination by these agents and analyse its temporal variations. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in ۲۰۲۳ at the School of Dentistry, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. Samples were collected from frequently touched surfaces including the headrest, light handle, control panel, and suction hose of dental units at three time points (before, during, and after the work shift). Samples were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar and Mannitol Salt Agar, and microbial identification was performed using standard microbiological tests. Statistical analysis was conducted using paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation. Overall, Candida albicans was detected in ۳۹.۲% of samples, and Staphylococcus aureus in ۵۲.۶%. The highest level of contamination was recorded after the work shift, which was significantly higher compared to the pre-shift level (P < ۰.۰۰۱). The Contamination Uniformity Index (CUI) indicated a relatively heterogeneous distribution. A moderate positive correlation was found between fungal and bacterial contamination (r = ۰.۴۱, P = ۰.۰۰۲). These findings indicate a significant increase in microbial contamination during work shifts, underscoring the importance of stricter disinfection protocols and continuous environmental monitoring in clinical settings.

کلیدواژه ها:

Infection control ، microbial contamination ، Candida albicans ، Staphylococcus aureus ، dental surfaces