In this podcast episode, Orthodontic Products Chief Editor Alison Werner talks to infection prevention expert and consultant Jackie Dorst about why orthodontic practices need to pay attention to this alert. As she puts it, this CDC Health Advisory Alert is likely to be picked up by the media—which means parents and patients could soon be asking you: Is the water in your practice safe? 

Dorst first explains nontuberculous Mycobacteria infections and the risks and complications that can occur for patients who contract these infections. She then breaks down the proper maintenance and monitoring protocol for dental unit waterlines in the orthodontic practice. Dorst points out that proper maintenance and monitoring of dental unit waterlines can be complex. To help orthodontic staff navigate this, she identifies a number of resources that can help.