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Amalgam in dentistry. A survey of methods used at dental clinics in Norrbotten to decrease exposure to mercury vapour
1Department of Human Work Sciences, Luleå University, Sweden.
Swedish Dental Journal
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Dental personnel in Norrbotten face mercury vapour exposure risks due to poor ventilation and inadequate protective gear. Improved safety measures are needed to mitigate hazards from amalgam handling in dental clinics.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Health
- Dental Public Health
Background:
- Dental amalgam use presents potential mercury vapour exposure risks for healthcare professionals.
- Inadequate ventilation and handling protocols can exacerbate these risks in clinical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing mercury vapour exposure during amalgam handling in Swedish dental clinics.
- To assess current practices for minimizing exposure and identify challenges faced by dental personnel.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among dental personnel in Norrbotten, Sweden.
- The survey focused on environmental factors, waste management, and the use of protective equipment.
Main Results:
- Increased room temperature and unsatisfactory ventilation were commonly reported issues.
- Practices for managing amalgam-contaminated waste varied significantly.
- Most dental personnel expressed concern about mercury exposure but lacked adequate protective equipment, which, when available, was often found to be disruptive.
Conclusions:
- There are significant risks of mercury vapour exposure in dental clinics due to environmental and procedural factors.
- Enhanced protective measures and improved ventilation are crucial for safeguarding dental personnel.
- Further research into effective and non-disruptive protective equipment is warranted.