Highlights
- Dental aerosols can transmit bacteria, viruses, and biofilm fragments.
- HOCl provides a non-toxic, fast-acting alternative to harsh disinfectants.
- Ideal for dental chairs, instruments, and operatory surfaces.
- No fragrance, no residue — perfect for sensitive clinical environments.
- Effective against airborne and surface pathogens.
- Health Canada–compliant and made in Canada.
The Hidden Challenge: Biofilm & Aerosols in Dentistry
Every time a high-speed handpiece or ultrasonic scaler runs, it generates micro-aerosols — tiny droplets that can linger in the air for minutes. These droplets carry bacteria, viruses, and fragments of dental biofilm, a sticky microbial layer that forms on instruments, tubing, and even waterlines.
Over time, dental unit waterlines can harbour biofilms that re-seed surfaces and patient contact points. Traditional disinfectants often contain quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) or alcohols that irritate mucous membranes and corrode equipment. CleanSmart’s hypochlorous acid (HOCl) spray delivers medical-grade disinfection that’s gentle on people and materials — without the strong odour or chemical residue.
Explore our School & Workplace Collection — trusted HOCl disinfectants for clinical and public facilities.
Why Hypochlorous Acid Is Transforming Dental Disinfection
HOCl is the same germ-fighting molecule our immune systems produce to neutralize pathogens. When stabilized for commercial use, it becomes a broad-spectrum disinfectant that kills 99.9 % of bacteria and viruses while remaining non-toxic and fragrance-free.
Benefits for Dental Practices
- Rapid Action: Works in under one minute of wet contact time.
- Surface-Safe: Non-corrosive on metals, plastics, and upholstery.
- Residue-Free: No film build-up on dental equipment or screens.
- Odourless: Comfortable for patients and staff.
- Eco-Conscious: Generated from salt, water, and electricity.
Shop 1 L Surface Cleaner & Disinfectant — perfect for dental operatories and treatment rooms.
The Biofilm Cycle in Dental Settings
Dental biofilm is persistent because it forms on any moist surface. Bacteria embed in a protective matrix that makes them resistant to many chemical disinfectants. Over time, biofilm breaks free and spreads through aerosols or contact with tools and gloves. HOCl’s unique oxidizing mechanism penetrates biofilm matrices and destroys microbes without damaging surfaces. It’s safe for routine use on:
- Operatory chairs and armrests
- Countertops and cabinet handles
- Impression trays and cure lights
- Light switches, X-ray buttons, and touchscreens
A daily spray routine with hypochlorous acid helps break the biofilm cycle and reduces the spread of airborne pathogens between patients.
Infection Control for the Modern Dental Practice
Health Canada and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) emphasize the importance of surface and equipment disinfection between patients. In Canada, where many clinics are adopting environmentally responsible cleaning protocols, HOCl offers an ideal balance of safety and efficacy.
Implementation Tip: Keep a dedicated HOCl spray bottle at each operatory and wipe surfaces before and after each procedure. Use fresh solution within labelled shelf life to ensure full efficacy.
FAQs
Q1: Is hypochlorous acid safe around patients and staff?
A: Yes. It’s non-irritating and approved for use in environments with people and animals.
Q2: Will it damage my dental equipment?
A: No. HOCl is non-corrosive when used as directed and safe for metal, plastic, and rubber components.
Q3: Can it replace chemical surface disinfectants?
A: Yes, for routine hard surface disinfection. Always follow label directions and Health Canada requirements.
Q4: Does HOCl control aerosols too?
A: It reduces microbial load on surfaces and can be used in adjacent areas to control aerosol-borne pathogens.
Q5: How does HOCl affect biofilm?
A: It oxidizes the biofilm matrix, breaking down microbial layers and preventing regrowth.
Final Thoughts
Modern infection control requires more than routine cleaning — it demands a science-based approach that protects patients and dental teams alike. By incorporating hypochlorous acid into your daily disinfection protocol, you achieve hospital-grade clean without the drawbacks of traditional chemicals.
Explore School & Workplace Collection or Shop 1 L Surface Cleaner & Disinfectant. For practice-level guidance, Contact us.
Sources
- Boecker D. et al. (2023). Antimicrobial efficacy, mode of action and in vivo use of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). PMC
- Public Health Ontario — Best Practices for Environmental Cleaning for Prevention & Control of Infections in All Health Care Settings (PIDAC) April 2018 (PDF) Public Health Ontario
- Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (via PICNET) — Infection Prevention & Control in the Dental Office: Guidelines (PDF) picnet.ca