The COVID-19 pandemic has shined a spotlight on the need for dentists to maintain a clean and safe practice environment. One way that Dr. Langston, your local holistic dentist, has taken his in-practice sanitation to a new level is through the use of a UV sanitation light. On this page, you will learn more about this remarkable technology and its role in keeping you and your dental team safe during your appointments.
You might have heard a lot about the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which is what is responsible for causing suntans and sunburns. It does this as it breaks down chemical bonds in living cells. While that might sound a little alarming, UV light’s ability to break down those chemical bonds is a good thing when it comes to sanitation. The light destroys the structure of many types of viruses and bacteria, greatly reducing the number of potential contagions on any surface the light reaches.
UV light is particularly effective against coronaviruses, including the one that causes COVID-19. Coronaviruses are surrounded by a delicate layer of lipids (fats). The UV light disrupts that layer, causing the virus to degrade and die.
UV light has been used in medical settings for many years, but recently, more and more dentists are investing in the equipment. In Dr. Langston’s holistic practice, we use a portable UV-emitting device from Larson Electronics. As its lamps emit UV-C light, more than 99 percent of viruses, bacteria, mold, and other organic particles in the area are killed. We utilize this state-of-the-art sanitation equipment after every aerosol-producing procedure.
Additional advantages of this device include:
Would you like to learn more about UV sanitation and how we are using it to maintain a safe and clean dental practice? Contact us today so we can answer all of your questions.