Abstract
Wash and care. These two words would probably best summarize the main aspect of hand hygiene in clinical dental practice. Not only are hands the most significant means of germ transmission, they are also the most important dental practice tools. Following the adoption of hand disinfection practice, using chlorinated lime solutions in 1861 by Semmelweis Ignaz, the incidence of hospital acquired diseases has drastically reduced. These primitive guidelines have hence been updated and are constantly reviewed in the light of available newer information. Current evidence indicates that, if recommended infection control procedures are followed, the risks of transmission of infectious diseases during dental treatment is drastically reduced. The implementation of an infection control policy and standard operating procedures requires a thorough knowledge of the risks and the practical measures to be taken using best practice guidelines and recommendations. This article reviews practical measures needed to ensure effective hand hygiene in the dental practice.
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