Member Article

“Danny the Dentist” helps Surrey businesses combat infection

Weybridge dentist, Danny de Villiers, known affectionately as “Danny The Dentist”, is using his expertise in infection control to help businesses in Surrey fight the spread of harmful viruses and bacteria.

Dr de Villiers has been running his High Street practice for three years and has now launched a county franchise for ‘Sanondaf’, a disinfection system that can stop the spread of cold and flu, Norovirus, E-coli and MRSA, as well as 99.9% of other bacteria, viruses, fungi and mould.

He took on the franchise as a fresh direction for when he retires from dentistry in 2019.

“I’ve been a dentist for more than 30 years and retiring to do nothing wasn’t an option for me,” said the 59 year old.

“My background gives me an excellent understanding of the importance of infection control. With resistance to antibiotics rising, preventing the spread of bacteria is the way forward.”

Danny established himself in Weybridge three years ago by chance, after returning to the UK from his native South Africa.

Previously based in Kent, the Weybridge practice best suited his needs and he now has 700 patients on his list for general dentistry, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and jaw joint problems.

“This franchise gives me the opportunity to stay a key part of the community that I love. I’m looking forward to working with local people in a whole new way.”

‘Sanondaf’, which is not harmful to humans, animals or plants, is a ‘touch-less’ disinfection system that allows surfaces to be sprayed and left.

The system can spray the hydrogen peroxide vapour (HPV) into a room to create a dry ‘fog’ or it can be used as an electrostatic solution that clings to surfaces, making it effective for hard-to-reach areas.

In a recent study carried out by NHS Dumfries and Galloway, an HPV system was found to be twice as effective at reducing virus growth after a minor outbreak of Norovirus than traditional detergent and chlorine cleaning. It was particularly effective in hard-to-reach areas such as underneath bed frames and on curtain rails.

Dr. de Villiers, who is a member of the Infection Prevention Society, saw the need in dental practices in Surrey for cleaning non-surgical areas like the waiting area and reception desk, where germs can be readily transmitted.

He launched Sanondaf to help dentists adhere to the strict guidelines on cleanliness laid down by the CQC.

“The system has benefits for any business in the county that looks after the public,” said Danny, “including care homes, children’s nurseries, hotels, leisure facilities, veterinary surgeries and hospitals.

“It minimises the risk of infection to customers and patients but it also reduces the cost and inconvenience associated with staff sickness.

“Premises can be cleaned and back in use in as little as 30 minutes so the operational impact is very low, too.”

Danny is a member of Surrey Chamber of Commerce and Business@Brooklands networking group.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sanondaf Surrey .