Concerns About Cross-Contamination During Dental X-Ray Procedures

excuse me?

Hello Doctor, I apologize for seeking your advice.
If an X-ray bite block comes into contact with residual blood or saliva from a previous patient on the X-ray machine, is there a risk of contracting hepatitis or HIV? After having a dental implant and stitches, I was biting down on gauze when I went to the X-ray room.
After the X-ray, I noticed a stain of unknown residual blood (which I confirmed was blood) on the circular part of the machine that was directly in front of my mouth.
I am a bit anxious about the possibility of cross-contamination (hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV) because the nurse first had me put on a protective gown and then adjusted the X-ray machine (I am unsure if she touched that blood-stained area; if there was blood there, other parts of the machine could also be contaminated with saliva).
She then retrieved an X-ray film and the bite block (which is a plastic ring; I can't remember if it had a handle), and the nurse placed the X-ray film inside for me to bite down on.
If her gloves came into contact with any bodily fluids or residual blood left by the previous patient, and if those fluids contained viruses, could that lead to my infection, especially since I had an open wound that was still bleeding? What is the likelihood of this happening, or am I just being overly anxious? I mentioned my concerns to the nurse, who smiled and told me not to worry, and she did not clean the area.
Later, another patient came in for an X-ray, and that blood stain was still on the machine.
How long should I wait before getting tested for reassurance? What specific tests should I request? I would appreciate any advice you can provide.
Wishing you all the best, and thank you for your help.
Sincerely, a concerned patient.

Làbǐ Lǎo Xīn, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/20

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, if the blood has dried for a while, it should not be infectious.
In the future, if you encounter this situation, you can ask the staff to wipe it away with alcohol wipes.
Best wishes, Dr.
Chen Chih-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2010/05/20

More Info

Dear 蠟筆老新,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding cross-contamination during dental X-ray procedures. Your worries about potential exposure to infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV due to contact with contaminated surfaces are valid, especially considering your recent dental procedure.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that dental offices are required to adhere to strict infection control protocols to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and protective eyewear, as well as the proper cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces and instruments that come into contact with patients. The X-ray machine, including the bite block and any other components that may come into contact with a patient’s mouth, should be thoroughly disinfected between patients.

In your case, if the X-ray machine had visible blood on it, it raises a concern about whether proper cleaning protocols were followed. However, the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV through contact with dried blood on surfaces is generally considered low, especially if the blood is not fresh and has dried. These viruses do not survive long outside the human body, and the likelihood of transmission through indirect contact is significantly lower than through direct exposure to infected blood.

Regarding your specific situation, if you are feeling anxious about potential exposure, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your risk based on your recent dental work and any potential exposure you may have had. If you are concerned about infection, they may recommend blood tests to check for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Typically, these tests can be performed a few weeks after potential exposure, as it may take time for the body to produce detectable antibodies.

In the meantime, it is essential to monitor your health and any symptoms that may arise. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, jaundice, or any other concerning signs, seek medical attention promptly.

Lastly, it is crucial to communicate your concerns with your dental provider. They should be made aware of the situation so that they can address any lapses in infection control and ensure that all equipment is properly cleaned and maintained for the safety of all patients.

In summary, while your concerns are understandable, the actual risk of infection from the scenario you described is likely low, especially if proper infection control measures are generally followed in the dental office. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice if you are feeling uneasy.
Wishing you peace of mind and good health.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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