Quaternary ammonia compounds: should they be used for disinfection in the dental office?

The dental practitioner works in the most contaminated portion of the human body. Thus, he not only exposes himself to infection but must be constantly alert to the possibility of cross contamination. The recent increase in serum hepatitis and the increasing frequency of gram-negative infections reinforce the necessity for adequate disinfection. One of the groups of agents most commonly used are the quaternary ammonia compounds. Few clinicians are aware of the limitations and problems inherent in the use of these compounds. This article presents a review of the literature and some limited tests and studies by the author to demonstrate these facts.