Introduction: Microbiological inadequacy of water in the dental chair system can be a source of infection during dental treatment, both for the patient and for the staff. Water in the dental chair system stagnates in narrow pipes during downtime, therefore microorganisms have ideal conditions for the growth and formation of biofilms that are resistant to disinfectants. The basic measures to prevent the growth of biofilms in the plumbing network of the dental chair is the consistent implementation of rinsing and disinfection of the plumbing network of the dental chair. With appropriate and consistent maintenance, it is possible to control and ensure that the dental chair does not represent a source of contamination and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. Purpose: The purpose of the research was to determine the microbiological adequacy of water in the water network of dental chairs in various dental clinics. We wanted to check the effectiveness of automatic disinfection compared to samples from dental chairs without automatic disinfection. Work methods: In the period from December 2021 to April 2022, we sampled water from all water taps on the dental chair and on the water spout in six dental clinics in the selected medical institution. At the time of sampling, field measurements were carried out. The water samples were analysed for the total number of microorganisms at 22 °C and 37 °C and to determine if there is presence of E. coli and enterococci in the water samples. Results: Water samples from three dental chairs with automatic disinfection in dental clinics A, C and F were adequate at all times. In the dental chair with automatic disinfection in dental clinic E, 37% of samples were inadequate. Water samples from dental chairs, without automatic disinfection, were microbiologically inadequate throughout the duration of the research. As many as 87% of the samples were inadequate on the dental chair of dental clinic B, and 78% of the samples were inadequate in the dental chair of dental clinic C. E. coli and enterococci were not present in any of the water samples. Discussion and conclusion: Water samples from dental chairs with automatic disinfection are significantly better compared to water samples from dental chairs that don’t have this feature. The microbiological adequacy of the samples, according to the individual water taps, was comparable to each other. By providing microbiologically appropriate water in the dental chair, we can ensure safe and quality treatment of patients and prevent the risk of possible infection in patients and dental staff.
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