Possible side effects related to dental hygienists' treatment

The aim of the present investigation was to obtain information on the repertoire of patient-related remedies and materials used by dental hygienists and on the frequency and nature of side effects observed among their patients. Norwegian hygienists received a questionnaire on dental remedies and materials used, the number of patients seen, and side effects observed during the past year and earlier. Information from 169 hygienists provided a list of remedies comprising fluoride-containing varnishes, polishing remedies, pit and fissure sealants, oral disinfectants, fluoride gels and solutions, and plaque-disclosing solutions. In addition, some hygienists used temporary dental materials, polyalkeonate/composites, and local anesthetic spray or ointment. Fourteen brands of latex gloves were used. Possible side effects of general and local nature were observed by 37 dental hygienists. Reactions associated with the application of Duraphat in children (> 1:1640) and contact with latex gloves in adult patients (> 1:3300) were most important. The findings are discussed with specific emphasis on the content of colophony in the fluoride varnish.