[The problem of hepatitis infection in dentistry]

The incidence of hepatitis B is increasing all over the world. The parenteral route of infection is one of the principal. A considerable number of cases are caused by infection of patients at therapeutic institutions, including dental clinics. Medical workers are at risk of the infection, too. One main cause is neglect of sanitary antiepidemic measures: manipulations without gloves, veils, protective eyeglasses; lack of disposable instruments, poor cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of hardware. Awareness and alertness of medical personnel is an important factor. Since dental care is a most prevalent kind of medical service, urgent measures are needed to decrease the risk of nosocomial infection with hepatitis for both patients and staff.