What should be done before and after patient treatment in relation to dental unit waterlines?

Flushing dental unit waterlines both before and after patient treatment is essential for maintaining a safe and hygienic clinical environment. This practice helps to remove any potential biofilm or contaminants that may have accumulated in the waterlines, ensuring that the water delivered during treatment is clean and free from pathogens.

Before treatment, flushing the waterlines helps to expel any stagnant water that has been in the lines and may not meet safety standards. It also facilitates the delivery of fresh water that is more likely to be free from bacteria and other microorganisms. After treatment, flushing is equally important as it helps to clear any debris or contaminants that may have entered the waterlines during the procedure, further preventing the buildup of biofilm and maintaining the integrity of the water system.

In contrast, simply checking water quality does not actively eliminate existing contaminants, and only flushing after treatment would miss the opportunity to ensure clean water is delivered at the start of a procedure. Additionally, using sterile water does not eliminate the requirement for flushing; it is still necessary to maintain the overall system hygiene and effectiveness. Thus, the proper protocol involves flushing both before and after patient treatment, reinforcing the health and safety standards essential in dental practices.