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Microbial aerosols in general dental practice.
A M Bennett1, M R Fulford, J T Walker
1CAMR, Salisbury, Wiltshire. allan.bennett@camr.org.uk
British Dental Journal
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Microbial aerosol concentrations in dental practices are usually low but can peak during procedures like scaling. These peaks, mainly from patient mouths, dissipate quickly and pose a slightly elevated risk of exposure to pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis for dental staff.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Dental public health
- Occupational hygiene
Background:
- Dental procedures generate aerosols that may contain microbial pathogens.
- Quantifying airborne microbial concentrations is crucial for risk assessment in healthcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure microbial aerosol concentrations in general dental practices.
- To develop a framework for microbiological risk assessment for dental staff.
Main Methods:
- Continuous microbial air sampling during 12 treatment sessions across 6 dental practices.
- Analysis of aerosol concentrations and identification of peak events.
Main Results:
- Typical microbial aerosol levels were below 10^3 colony forming units per cubic meter (cfu/m³).
- Peak concentrations, linked to oral streptococci from patients, occurred during 6/12 visits, primarily during mechanical scaling (47%) and cavity preparation (11%).
- Aerosol peaks dissipated within 30 minutes, with no detected spread to waiting areas; no aerosolized blood was found.
Conclusions:
- A framework for quantifying staff exposure risk to airborne pathogens in dental settings was developed.
- Dental professionals may face a slightly increased risk of exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis compared to the general population.
- Use of effective respiratory protection, such as face seal masks, can mitigate exposure risks.