Helicobacter pylori infection in dental workers: a seroepidemiology study

The finding of Helicobacter pylori in dental plaque suggested that dental workers may be at increased risk of acquiring H. pylori infection from occupational exposure. A cross-sectional survey of 239 dental workers from 37 Texas cities (including 89 dentists, 44 dental hygienists, 98 dental assistants, and eight dental students) was conducted. H. pylori infection was determined by the presence of IgG antibodies to H. pylori, using a specific and sensitive ELISA. Participants ranged in age from 19 to 72 yr (mean 34 yr) and the duration of dental practice ranged from 1 to 48 yr (mean 12 yr). Type of dental occupation, duration of practice, type of practice (public or private), instrument used for cleaning teeth (ultrasonic scaler or curette), and prevalence of upper gastrointestinal symptoms were determined by self-administered questionnaires and interviews. Eighty-two percent had no symptoms referable to the upper gastrointestinal tract. The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 24%: 17% in dentists, 18% in dental hygienists, 34% in dental assistants, and 25% in dental students. The prevalence increased significantly with age (p < 0.05). The prevalence of H. pylori infection was significantly higher in non-whites, 29 of 63 (46%), than whites, 29 of 176 (16%) (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis (dependent variable H. pylori) revealed no significant association between H. pylori infection and the type, duration, or volume of practice, or the type of cleaning instrument used. We conclude that dental workers are not at increased risk to H. pylori infection.