Novel use of riboflavin as a fluorescent tracer in the dissemination of aerosol and splatter in an open operatory dental clinic

OBJECTIVES: The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and the ensuing rise of the COVID‐19 pandemic have impacted healthcare unprecedentedly. With the scarcity of available resources, including healthcare providers themselves, novel methods for tracking aerosol and splatter in real time are required to alleviate demand and increase safety. This study evaluates the utility of riboflavin (vitamin B(2)) as a tracer for splatter/aerosol distribution from ultrasonic scaling in an open operatory clinic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In two experimental designs, ultrasonic scaling was performed on 18 volunteers or simulated on a manikin. Riboflavin was introduced into the irrigation system, and aerosol and splatter dissemination were evaluated for both experimental designs. RESULTS: Ultrasonic scaling utilizing riboflavin solution, in volunteers and manikins, leads to observable particle fluorescence under UV light. Contamination distribution varied across the different suction methods and between the volunteer and manikin trials. Nearly all observed incidences of contamination occurred within the operatory in use. CONCLUSIONS: Riboflavin can be used with minimal risk during dental procedures and allows for the detection of droplet spread in clinical settings in real time.