Hand infections in dental personnel

In an attempt to study the incidence of hand infections in dental personnel, a standardized survey was submitted to 715 dental professionals and hygienists throughout the state of Nebraska. Of those surveyed, 508 responded (71 percent). Ninety-eight of the 508 respondents reported an infection (19.29 percent). The rate of infection was found to correlate positively with the number of patients seen per week. The rate of infection was increased in respondents with chronic disease (e.g., diabetes mellitus) versus those without chronic disease (33.33 vs. 18.59 percent). In the dental professionals surveyed, it was found that the rate of infection in those who did not routinely wear surgical gloves was significantly greater than in those who did (28.6 vs. 17.6 percent). The morbidity of infections acquired in dental practice can be substantial. A percentage of individuals must leave their practice for surgical treatment. A number have acquired hepatitis B (although none in this study), and exposure to the HTLV-III is possible. We conclude that some protection from infection can be achieved with the routine use of surgical gloves, and this practice should be considered by all, particularly those with chronic disease.