[Prevention of viral cross-infection. Surface disinfection with 80% ethanol].

High concentrations (80-90%) of ethanol seem to be best for use in the dental office. A mixture of 80% ethanol and 5% isopropanol was shown to inactivate HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses within 20 seconds. Compared with alternative antiviral disinfectants, such a mixture is non allergenic and minimally toxic for the dental team. It is suitable for spraying or for the spray-wipe-spray technique as an important cross-infection control measure in dentistry.