Waterline cleaning solutions and treatments are used to avoid contamination and ensure properly functioning bottle and self-contained waterlines. Product options include cleaning liquids, tablets and powders.
Table 1: Comparison of Numeric Data for Top 10 Waterline Cleaning Solutions & Treatments
| Product Name | CFU Level | Package Quantity | Price per Package | Active Ingredient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AquaLiant™ Dental Unit Waterline Treatment System Microbial Straw Cartridge – 100 TDS or More | <10 CFU/ml | 1/Pkg | $153.99 | Silver Ion |
| CitriSil™ Shock Tablet, 20/Pkg | Not Provided | 20/Pkg | $59.99 | Not Provided |
| VistaTab™ Dental Waterline Cleaner, 1.7 g Tablets | Not Provided | 15/Pkg | $54.99 | Chlorine Dioxide |
| Mint-A-Kleen® Dental Unit Waterline and Bottle Cleaner – 10/Pkg | < 200 CFU/mL | 10/Pkg | $67.99 | Chlorhexidine |
| VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate | Not Provided | Not Provided | $33.99 | Organic Citrus Botanicals |
| CitriSil™ Blue Waterline Cleaner, Tablets – 2 Liter | <10 CFU/ml | Not Provided | $69.99 | Not Provided |
| ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment, 50/Pkg – For Cascade and Performer, 0.7 Liter | Not Provided | 50/Pkg | $69.99 | Not Provided |
| Patterson® Waterline Maintenance Tablets, 50/Pkg – 2 Liter Treatment | Not Provided | 50/Pkg | $56.99 | Not Provided |
| Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution, 10 Applications/Pkg | Not Provided | 10/Pkg | $149.99 | Alkaline Peroxide |
| BluTab™ Waterline Tablets – Treats 2 Liter Size Bottles, 50 Tablets/Pkg | <10 CFU/mL | 50/Pkg | $68.99 | Not Provided |
Table 2: Comparison of Key Features for Top 10 Waterline Cleaning Solutions & Treatments
| Product Name | Cleaning Agent Type | Manufacturer Name | Standards Met | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AquaLiant™ Dental Unit Waterline Treatment System Microbial Straw Cartridge – 100 TDS or More | Continuous Cleaning & Maintenance | Pelton & Crane | Noncorrosive | Pelton & Crane equipment and KaVo handpieces |
| CitriSil™ Shock Tablet, 20/Pkg | Shock Treatment | STERISIL, INC | FDA | Not Provided |
| VistaTab™ Dental Waterline Cleaner, 1.7 g Tablets | Continuous Cleaning & Maintenance | HU-FRIEDY | EPA | Not Provided |
| Mint-A-Kleen® Dental Unit Waterline and Bottle Cleaner – 10/Pkg | Chlorhexidine Formula | Not Provided | ADA and CDC Water Quality Standards | Not Provided |
| VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate | Irrigant Solution | Not Provided | Not Provided | Not Provided |
| CitriSil™ Blue Waterline Cleaner, Tablets – 2 Liter | Not Provided | Not Provided | EPA | Self-contained water bottles |
| ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment, 50/Pkg – For Cascade and Performer, 0.7 Liter | Effervescing Tablet | Not Provided | Not Provided | Cascade and Performer, 0.7 liter |
| Patterson® Waterline Maintenance Tablets, 50/Pkg – 2 Liter Treatment | Shock & Maintenance Tablets | Patterson Dental Supply | Not Provided | 2 Liter |
| Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution, 10 Applications/Pkg | External Bottle System | Not |
Top 10 Waterline System Replacement Parts for Dentists
1. AquaLiant™ Dental Unit Waterline Treatment System Microbial Straw Cartridge
Product Description
The AquaLiant™ Dental Unit Waterline Treatment System Microbial Straw Cartridge offers a reliable solution for maintaining safe, clean dental waterlines. Formulated with noncorrosive ingredients, it helps protect both patients and dental equipment while delivering consistent microbial control.
Product Overview
Designed for continuous cleaning and maintenance, the AquaLiant™ straw cartridge integrates seamlessly with Pelton & Crane dental units and KaVo handpieces. It uses silver ion technology to actively suppress microbial growth, maintaining CFU levels well below CDC standards (<10 CFU/ml). Easy to install and long-lasting, it provides ongoing protection without the need for frequent intervention.
Key Features
Continuously treats and maintains waterline cleanliness
Silver ion formulation targets bacterial contamination
Noncorrosive—safe for use with dental equipment
Compatible with Pelton & Crane units and KaVo handpieces
Supports long-term infection control compliance
Common Applications
Ongoing microbial control in dental unit waterlines
Protecting patients and staff from waterborne pathogens
Maintaining equipment performance and safety
Technical Specifications
Product Name: AquaLiant™ Dental Unit Waterline Treatment System Microbial Straw Cartridge
Brand: AquaLiant™
Active Ingredient: Silver Ion
CFU Level: <10 CFU/ml
Cleaning Agent Type: Continuous Cleaning & Maintenance
Compatibility: Pelton & Crane units, KaVo handpieces
Safety Features: Noncorrosive
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Pelton & Crane
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified clinical feedback)
Customer Feedback
- Simple and effective solution for waterline maintenance
- Keeps our lines well below CDC bacterial limits
- No corrosion or damage to equipment over time
Top 10 Waterline Test Kits for Dentists
2. CitriSil™ Shock Tablet
Product Description
CitriSil™ Shock Tablet is a powerful dental waterline disinfectant designed to maintain water quality and eliminate odor-causing bacteria. With its monthly application protocol, this orange-colored tablet delivers consistent shock treatment to ensure dental unit waterlines remain compliant and hygienic.
Product Overview
CitriSil™ Shock Tablet provides a reliable, easy-to-use solution for dental practices seeking to control microbial contamination in waterlines. It works by releasing active agents that target and kill bacteria responsible for biofilm and unpleasant odors, helping maintain a safe and clean environment for patients and staff.
Key Features
- Effectively kills odor-causing bacteria
- Designed for monthly use
- Maintains dental water compliance
- Distinct orange color for easy identification
- Simple drop-in tablet format
Common Applications
- Monthly disinfection of dental unit waterlines
- Odor control in dental water systems
- Biofilm management in clinical environments
Technical Specifications
Brand: CitriSil™
Cleaning Agent Type: Shock Treatment
Color: Orange
Recommended Use Frequency: Monthly
Form: Tablet
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for ease of use and effectiveness in reducing odors and maintaining compliance.
Customer Feedback
- Super easy to use and keeps our lines smelling fresh!
- We’ve used CitriSil for over a year with excellent results.
- One tablet a month—simple and effective!
3. VistaTab™ Dental Waterline Cleaner
VistaTab™ Dental Waterline Cleaner
VistaTab™ Dental Waterline Cleaner is a monthly-use, EPA-registered antimicrobial tablet designed to reduce bacterial contamination in dental waterlines. Upon dissolving in water, VistaTab™ generates chlorine dioxide—a potent, non-corrosive solution that is up to seven times more effective than traditional chlorine bleach. This makes it ideal for ongoing dental unit waterline maintenance without damaging sensitive equipment.
Product Overview
Manufactured by HU-FRIEDY, VistaTab™ is formulated for easy integration into your regular infection control protocol. The tablet dissolves rapidly to form a reliable disinfecting solution, ensuring continuous waterline safety and compliance with EPA standards.
Key Features
- EPA-registered antimicrobial tablet
- Produces chlorine dioxide—7x more effective than bleach
- Non-corrosive to equipment
- Designed for monthly use
- Fast-dissolving formulation
Common Applications
- Routine disinfection of dental unit waterlines
- Maintenance of microbial safety in patient treatment areas
- Ideal for general and specialty dental practices
Technical Specifications
Brand: VistaTab™
Manufacturer: HU-FRIEDY
Cleaning Agent Type: Continuous Cleaning & Maintenance
Product Form: Tablet
Package Quantity: 15 tablets per package
Standards Met: EPA Registered
Customer Ratings
Highly rated for ease of use and effectiveness in maintaining clean, compliant dental waterlines.
Customer Feedback
- Simple monthly treatment that gives peace of mind.
- Much more effective than bleach and doesn’t harm our units.
- A reliable part of our infection control routine.
4. Mint-A-Kleen® Dental Unit Waterline and Bottle Cleaner
Mint-A-Kleen® Dental Unit Waterline and Bottle Cleaner
Mint-A-Kleen® is an EPA-registered dental waterline cleaner designed for direct and effective contact with microbial contamination inside water bottles and tubing. Using a chlorhexidine-based formula, it simplifies weekly maintenance with just three steps—air purge, apply Mint-A-Kleen, and flush with water. Research confirms its standalone use maintains dental water quality under 200 CFU/mL, well below CDC and ADA standards.
Product Overview
Developed to streamline waterline disinfection, Mint-A-Kleen eliminates the need for multiple products or filtration systems. Its targeted application and proven efficacy make it a reliable solution for practices seeking to meet or exceed regulatory guidelines with minimal disruption to daily operations.
Key Features
- EPA registered formula (EPA #: 85298-2)
- Chlorhexidine-based for targeted microbial control
- Proven to maintain < 200 CFU/mL water quality
- Meets ADA and CDC standards (< 500 CFU/mL)
- Easy 3-step weekly application
- No need for tablets, powders, or filters
Common Applications
- Weekly disinfection of dental unit waterlines and bottles
- Routine waterline maintenance for general and specialty dental practices
- Ensuring compliance with infection control regulations
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Mint-A-Kleen®
Formula Base: Chlorhexidine
EPA Registration Number: 85298-2
Application Frequency: Weekly
Water Quality Maintenance: < 200 CFU/mL
Standards Met: ADA and CDC (< 500 CFU/mL)
Customer Ratings
Trusted by dental professionals for consistent, effective performance and ease of use.
Customer Feedback
- Super easy to use—takes just minutes each week.
- Keeps our waterlines clean without complicated steps.
- Great results without needing multiple products.
5. VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate
VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate
VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate is a daily-use irrigant derived from organic citrus botanicals, designed to maintain clean and efficient dental waterlines. Safe for use with patients, this noncorrosive, nontoxic solution emulsifies organic and inorganic contaminants while helping to prevent scale and deposit buildup in waterlines and dental equipment.
Product Overview
Gentle yet effective, VistaClean™ enhances daily maintenance protocols without altering taste or odor. Its environmentally friendly composition supports a safer, cleaner operatory while having no negative impact on restorative procedures such as bonding.
Key Features
- Derived from organic citrus botanicals
- Safe for daily use with patients
- Emulsifies biofilm, scale, and contaminants
- Noncorrosive and environmentally friendly
- No taste, odor, or interference with bond strength
- Non-toxic and biodegradable
Common Applications
- Daily maintenance of dental waterlines
- Preventing scale buildup in delivery units
- Safe irrigation during patient procedures
Technical Specifications
Product Name: VistaClean™ Irrigant Solution Concentrate
Usage Frequency: Daily
Formulation: Organic citrus-based
Taste/Odor: None
Toxicity: Nontoxic
Environmental Impact: Biodegradable, eco-friendly
Compatibility: Safe for use with dental bonding procedures
Customer Ratings
Praised for its gentle yet effective cleaning action and compatibility with patient care protocols.
Customer Feedback
- No aftertaste and keeps our lines in excellent condition.
- Love that it’s eco-friendly and safe for patients.
- Daily use has made our maintenance routine effortless.
6. CitriSil™ Blue Waterline Cleaner, Tablets
CitriSil™ Blue Waterline Cleaner, Tablets
CitriSil™ Blue Tablets are designed to continuously disinfect and maintain dental waterlines with ease. Begin treatment with 1 CitriSil Shock tablet, then follow with 1 CitriSil Blue tablet for each refill of your self-contained water bottle. This efficient system ensures consistent, safe, and pH-balanced treatment for your dental unit waterlines.
Product Overview
Developed for straightforward integration into your dental unit maintenance protocol, CitriSil™ Blue Tablets work with distilled or purified tap water to produce an effervescent, light blue solution that not only disinfects but also provides visual confirmation of compliance. EPA registration confirms that the treated water meets stringent standards, yielding less than or equal to 10 CFU per ml HPC—approximately 50 times below the ADA and CDC guidelines.
Key Features
- Effervescent Action: Dissolves quickly in distilled or purified water
- Visual Compliance: Produces a light blue tint during treatment
- Effective Disinfection: EPA registered to achieve ≤10 CFU per ml HPC
- High Safety Margin: Meets or exceeds ADA and CDC guidelines by a significant factor
- Easy-to-Follow Protocol: Use 1 CitriSil Shock followed by 1 Blue tablet per water bottle refill
- pH-Balanced Treatment: Ensures safe compatibility with dental equipment
Common Applications
- Continuous disinfection of dental unit waterlines
- Routine maintenance of self-contained water bottle systems in dental practices
- Visual monitoring of treatment effectiveness via the distinct blue tint
Technical Specifications
Product Name: CitriSil™ Blue Waterline Cleaner, Tablets
Usage Protocol: 1 Shock tablet initially, then 1 Blue tablet per water bottle refill
Water Requirements: Distilled or purified tap water
Visual Indicator: Effervescent solution with a light blue tint
EPA Registration: Ensures ≤10 CFU per ml HPC
Compliance: Exceeds ADA and CDC microbial safety standards
Customer Ratings
Highly regarded by dental professionals for its ease of use, clear visual indicator, and consistently effective disinfection performance.
Customer Feedback
- The blue tint makes it so easy to verify that the treatment is active.
- Our waterlines have never been cleaner—highly effective and simple to use.
- Exceeding safety standards by such a large margin gives us great peace of mind.
7. ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment – For Cascade and Performer
ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment – For Cascade and Performer
ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment is a simple, effective solution for maintaining clean dental waterlines between shock treatments. Designed specifically for use with Cascade and Performer systems, these effervescing tablets prevent biofilm buildup and microbial contamination that can compromise patient safety. Just drop one tablet into an empty self-contained water bottle before each refill—no mixing, no measuring.
Product Overview
Formulated for daily use, ICX™ tablets provide ongoing disinfection while remaining active in the system for up to two weeks. By preventing foul odors and bacteria, ICX helps maintain high-quality water standards with minimal effort. The treatment is safe for patients and staff, and noncorrosive to dental equipment, making it a reliable part of routine maintenance protocols.
Key Features
- No mixing or measuring required
- Long-lasting action—remains active in lines for at least 2 weeks
- Prevents biofilm buildup, odor, and foul taste
- Safe for use with patients and staff
- Eliminates the need to purge lines at night
- Noncorrosive to dental equipment
- Designed specifically for Cascade and Performer systems
Common Applications
- Daily maintenance of dental waterlines in Cascade and Performer units
- Prevention of microbial contamination in self-contained bottle systems
- Supplementing routine shock treatments with continuous protection
Technical Specifications
Product Name: ICX™ Tablet Waterline Treatment
System Compatibility: Cascade and Performer
Formulation: Effervescent tablet
Application Frequency: With each refill
Residual Activity: At least 2 weeks
Safety: Non-toxic, noncorrosive
No Nightly Purging Required: Maintains effectiveness overnight
Customer Ratings
Widely praised for ease of use, long-lasting protection, and equipment safety.
Customer Feedback
- So convenient—just drop it in and it does the work for you.
- Keeps our water fresh without having to purge every night.
- No more bad taste or smell from the waterlines—huge improvement.
8. Patterson® Waterline Maintenance Tablets
Patterson® Waterline Maintenance Tablets
Patterson® Waterline Maintenance Tablets are specially formulated to inhibit microbial growth in dental unit waterlines, supporting safe, clean water delivery in clinical settings. Designed for both shock and maintenance treatments, these tablets offer an efficient and effective way to help reduce biofilm formation and maintain compliance with infection control protocols.
Product Overview
Ideal for regular use, each package contains 50 tablets compatible with either 750 ml or 2-liter water bottles. These tablets are easy to use—simply drop one into the designated bottle size to maintain microbial control in your waterlines. The solution supports safe patient care while being compatible with standard dental delivery systems.
Key Features
- Targets and inhibits microbial contamination
- Available for 750 ml and 2-liter bottles
- Simple drop-in tablet format—no mixing required
- Supports ongoing waterline maintenance and shock treatments
- Manufactured by Patterson Dental Supply
- Designed for routine infection control in dental practices
Common Applications
- Daily and weekly dental waterline disinfection
- Routine shock treatment protocols
- Use in general, pediatric, and specialty dental units
Technical Specifications
Brand: Patterson®
Cleaning Agent Type: Shock & Maintenance Tablets
Compatible Bottle Size: 2 Liter
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
Package Quantity: 50 tablets per package
Product Form: Tablet
Item Numbers: 0419184 (750 ml), 0419192 (2 Liter)
Customer Ratings
Recognized for reliability and simplicity in maintaining dental unit waterline quality.
Customer Feedback
- Straightforward to use and keeps our lines in great shape.
- Perfect size and strength for our 2-liter bottles.
- Reliable solution for our infection control routine.
9. Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution
Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution
Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution is a patented, alkaline peroxide-based treatment designed to clean and disinfect dental unit waterlines using an external bottle delivery system. Suitable for both shock and routine maintenance, this solution removes deposits, debris, and biofilm while maintaining safety and performance in dental units.
Product Overview
Engineered for weekly use, Sterilex® Ultra features a pink dye indicator to visually confirm application. Compatible with all external water delivery systems, it offers a cost-effective and noncorrosive solution to maintain waterline cleanliness and protect both patients and equipment.
Key Features
- Alkaline peroxide-based formula for powerful cleaning
- Pink dye indicator confirms application
- Works with any external water delivery system
- Removes deposits, debris, and biofilm
- Noncorrosive—safe for dental unit components
- Cost-effective for regular maintenance
- Suitable for shock and ongoing treatment
Common Applications
- Weekly waterline disinfection using external bottle systems
- Biofilm and debris removal in general and specialty dental practices
- Maintenance of waterline hygiene and microbial control
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Sterilex® Ultra Liquid Solution
Formula Base: Patented alkaline peroxide
Application Method: External bottle system
Frequency of Use: Weekly
Visual Indicator: Pink dye
Corrosiveness: Noncorrosive
Function: Shock and maintenance treatment
Customer Ratings
Trusted by dental professionals for its ease of use, compatibility, and effectiveness in deep cleaning waterlines.
Customer Feedback
- The pink dye makes it foolproof—no second guessing.
- Great for deep cleaning without damaging equipment.
- Affordable and works with all our external systems.
10. BluTab™ Waterline Tablets – Treats 2 Liter Size Bottles
BluTab™ Waterline Tablets – Treats 2 Liter Size Bottles
BluTab™ Waterline Tablets offer a simple, continuous solution for maintaining dental waterline cleanliness. Designed to be used with every refill of a 2-liter self-contained water bottle, these effervescent tablets eliminate the need for weekly shock treatments and nightly purging. Safe, odorless, and effective, BluTab™ helps maintain optimal water quality standards for both patient and practice safety.
Product Overview
With ingredients that are nontoxic, tasteless, and odorless, BluTab™ is EPA registered to deliver water purity of ≤10 CFU/mL—far below ADA and CDC recommendations. The tablet’s sustained action keeps lines protected for up to 28 days without compromising dental material bond strengths, making it ideal for everyday use in busy dental offices.
Key Features
- Continuous-use tablet for daily waterline maintenance
- No need for weekly shock or nightly purging
- Safe for patients and staff—nontoxic formulation
- Tasteless and odorless
- Effective for up to 28 days
- Does not interfere with bonding procedures
- EPA registered: ensures ≤10 CFU/mL microbial purity
Common Applications
- Daily waterline maintenance in self-contained 2-liter bottles
- Ongoing infection control in general and specialty dental units
- Visual and clinical assurance of waterline compliance
Technical Specifications
Product Name: BluTab™ Waterline Tablets
Bottle Size Compatibility: 2 Liter
Form: Effervescent tablet
Application Frequency: With each refill
Duration of Effectiveness: Up to 28 days
Safety: Nontoxic, tasteless, odorless
EPA Registered: ≤10 CFU/mL microbial purity
Bond Compatibility: No impact on bond strength
Customer Ratings
Well-reviewed for its ease of use, long-lasting protection, and patient-safe formulation.
Customer Feedback
- No more purging at the end of the day—huge time-saver.
- Water quality has been consistently excellent with BluTab.
- Love that it’s effective without affecting bonding or taste.
