Background.The use of dental handpieces produces aerosols containing microbial agents, bacteria, and viruses representing a high-risk situation for airborne cross infections. The aim of this study was to map and quantify the biological contamination of a dental operatory environment using a biological tracer.

Key Words. Aerosols; air microbiology; bacteria; communicable disease control; cross infection; decontamination; dental equipment; disease transmission; patient-to-professional; Streptococcus.