Injuries to dental patients and visitors

Reports were studied of all incidents of injury and accidents involving outpatients or visitors to Bristol Dental Hospital between 1980 and 1988 inclusive. Seventy-two incidents were reported, two-thirds of which occurred during or just after dental treatment, and usually involved oral soft tissues or teeth. Few accidents that occurred at this time could be attributed to faulty equipment. One-third of accidents occurred outside the treatment area, the resultant injuries were usually minor, although one injury was considered serious enough to warrant legal action to be taken against the Health Authority. Hence, it is important that the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act (1974) are implemented in all parts of a dental practice to avoid injury to patients.