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Waterline shock treatment
Also called: shock, line cleaner, periodic cleaner
A stronger chemical run through waterlines periodically to knock down biofilm.
A shock treatment is a stronger cleaner that sits in the waterlines for a set time to remove or kill biofilm, then is flushed out. Product makers often call for it when a system is first set up and on a regular schedule, and CDC says to treat per the instructions after a failed water test.
How to spot it
- A bottle or kit labeled as a waterline cleaner or shock for dental units.
What it is used for
- Run it through all lines, leave it for the labeled time (often outside patient hours), then flush thoroughly before patient care.
Safety and care
- Patients must never receive shock solution; flush completely.
- Wear gloves and eye protection; read the SDS.
Related
Sources: CDC. Best Practices for Dental Unit Water Quality, CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17)