Comparative evaluation of ingenious aerosol control box and high vacuum suction tip to control aerosol contamination during ultrasonic scaling in gingivitis patient with split-mouth technique: A clinicomicrobial study

Objective: The objective of the study was to check whether the ingenious aerosol control box is comparable to a high vacuum suction tip in controlling aerosol contamination during ultrasonic scaling in gingivitis patients. Materials and Methods: It is a clinical analytical research, this study was carried out on 30 sides (left/right) in 15 patients (split mouth) with biofilm-induced gingivitis (WWP 2017) patients undergoing ultrasonic scaling procedure for 15–20 min. Group A or test group (15 sides): ultrasonic scaling was done (on the left or right half of the mouth) with an ultrasonic scaler, along with ingenious aerosol box for 15–20 min. The patient was shifted to another operatory for remaining ultrasonic scaling of the other half of the mouth. Group B or control group (15 sides): ultrasonic scaling was done (on the left or right half of the mouth) with an ultrasonic scaler, along with a high vacuum suction tip for 15–20 min. On the operator's chest, blood agar plates were positioned at 1 and 2 feet away from the operation area. Results: Mean colony-forming units per agar plate were significantly higher in the high vacuum suction tip group compared to the test group at patient's chest, 1 foot distance and 2 feet distance. Conclusion: Using an aerosol box, health-care personnel performing ultrasonic scaling considerably reduced aerosol contamination in the operating room.