What is recommended to clean all contaminated dental unit surfaces?

Intermediate level disinfectants are recommended for cleaning all contaminated dental unit surfaces because they are effective against a broad range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These disinfectants typically have the ability to kill most microorganisms, making them suitable for use in clinical settings where the risk of transmission of infections is a concern. Their formulation allows for the inactivation of more resistant pathogens that may be present in a dental environment, providing a more robust cleaning solution compared to low-level disinfectants, which may not eliminate all infectious agents. The use of alcohol wipes, while useful for certain cleaning tasks, may not provide the same level of microbial inactivation necessary for dental unit surfaces. High-level disinfectants, while highly effective, are typically reserved for use on heat-sensitive critical items rather than everyday surfaces.