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Cost calculator: explanations
The figures used in the cost calculator are estimates based on input from a panel of Dentists. Exact costs will differ depending on individual circumstances but we believe the figures used are broadly representative of a cross section of practices.
This is what the BDA has to say about manual washing:
"Hand cleaning is the least efficient cleaning method. If this method is used, however, the instruments should be fully immersed in a sink pre-filled with warm water and detergent and a long-handled kitchen-type brush to remove debris. Instruments should be washed under water with the sharp end of the instrument held away from the body; extra care must be taken when cleaning instruments that are sharp at both ends. Thick waterproof household gloves must be worn to protect against accidental injury and protective eyewear to shield against splashing. The brush used to remove the debris from the instruments should be cleaned and autoclaved at regular intervals; at the end of each session for example, cleaned brushes should be stored dry."
- Manual process
- Capital cost Based on an estimate of replacing the washing area equipment - basically a washbasin and drainer once every ten years at a cost of £100 = 20 pence a week.
- Consumables Derived from an estimate of 2 pence per patient for cleaning fluids, thick waterproof household gloves (to protect against accidental injury), protective eyewear (to shield against splashing), long-handled kitchen-type brush (cleaned and autoclaved at regular intervals).
- Staff Based on an Dental Nurse earning £18,000 p.a. The calculation was that for a weekly case load of 200 such a nurse would spend 33% of their time involved in the cleaning process. This equates to 57 pence per patient. This is an under-estimate as the salary is only part of the total cost or employment. Additional costs such as insurances, maternity and sick pay, the possible need to employ agency staff to cover absences, employers NI, management and payroll costs can combine to make the total cost of employment significantly higher.
- 'Clinic' process
- Capital cost Based on the Dawmed Rental package at £2.48 per day.
- Consumables The only consumable is Dawmed's specially formulated detergent. This is supplied in 500ml bottles each of which is enough for approx 132 patients making the cost per patient approx 13 pence. Automated metering means there is no wastage. There is no risk of omitting the detergent as the cleaning cycle will not run if there is inadequate fluid in the reservoir.
- Staff Based on an Dental Nurse earning £18,000 p.a. The calculation was that for a weekly case load of 200 such a nurse would spend 5% of their time involved in the cleaning process. This equates to 9 pence per patient.
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