Handwashing in healthcare facilities is the most important aseptic procedure in the prevention of nosocomial or clinic-acquired infections. Handwashing significantly reduces microbes on the hands and protects both patients and the dental staff. Resident flora is persistently isolated from the skin of most individuals. These microorganisms are considered permanent residents of the skin and are not easily removed by mechanical friction but can be reduced with handwashing.
Resident flora plays a minor role in disease transmission.
Transient flora can contaminate the hands through contact with environmental surfaces, instruments, and patients. These organisms do not colonize or survive for extended periods of time, but are a major source of disease transmission. Routine handwashing can significantly reduce or remove transient microflora on the hands. In dentistry, pathogens found in blood, saliva, and plaque can cause infection via entrance through cuts, abrasions, or lesions on the skin, or can be transferred to mucous membrane by the hands and then transported to the bloodstream. Handwashing products include plain soap and agents with antimicrobial activity.