An overview of occupational hazards in dental practice and preventive measures

2014 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-25
Author(s):  
Naveen Shamnur ◽  
D.S Poorya Naik ◽  
S Chetan ◽  
B.R Gopal Krishna.

Abstract The purpose of this article is to review the occupational hazards related to the practice of Dentistry. The classification of hazards is based on major sources of risk by system or tissue and by dental office area (dental chair, laboratory, sterilization area, x-ray developing area). Potentially hazardous factors relate to the general practice setting; to specific materials and tools that expose the operator to vision and hearing risks; to chemical substances with known allergenic, toxic, or irritating actions; to increased microbial counts and silica particles of the aerosols produced during tooth preparation, removal of restorations; to ergonomic considerations that might have an impact on the provider's musculoskeletal system; and to psychological stress with proven undesirable sequalae. The identification and elimination of these risk factors should be incorporated into a standard practice management program as an integral part of dental education. Professional organizations can also assist in informing practitioners of potential hazards and methods to deal with them. How to cite this article Poorya Naik DS, Chetan S, Gopal Krishna BR, Naveen S. An overview of occupational hazards in dental practice and preventive measures. CODS J Dent 2014;6;19-25

Author(s):  
M Negucioiu ◽  
A Bucur ◽  
O Lucaciu ◽  
A Soanca ◽  
A Roman

Abstract The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has seen a violent and fast spread worldwide. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has a predominantly respiratory transmission through droplets and aerosol with serious implications for dental settings. This article is based on recent research, guidelines issued by relevant authorities, as well as on the authors’ experience acquired through their involvement in setting up an emergency dental care hub in Cluj-Napoca, Romania during the COVID-19 lockdown. The present article aims to provide a brief description of COVID-19 implications in dental office and to recommend preventive protocols for dental practitioners to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. The recommendations for infection control presented in this article address the specific risks of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. The article provides a special customized guideline covering patient triage and entrance into the dental practice, personnel protection, dental treatment and after-treatment management. The implementation of strict preventive measures has been found to be efficient in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 contamination since no infections have been reported among our staff or patients. COVID-19 is a major emergency worldwide marked by a rapid evolution, and warranting a need for further assessment of the implications of COVID-19 outbreak in dental practice.


2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 847-851
Author(s):  
Nithyanandham Masilamani ◽  
Dhanraj Ganapathy

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) induced by new ß coronavirus MERS-(CoV) had first been described in Saudi Arabia in September 2012. MERS-CoV communication inside the population is often identified with clustered households and cramped communal spaces. The purpose of the study is to assess the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV among dental students in India. This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey of 100 dental college students in Chennai. The self-designed questionnaires contained ten questions focused on the knowledge and awareness of MERS-CoV amongst dental college students. Questionnaires were circulated through an online website survey planet. After the responses were received from 100 participants, data were collected and analyzed, .87% are aware of MERS-CoV through media 13% from professional channels. 84%are aware of the clinical manifestation of MERS-CoV. 81%Are aware of the mode of transmission of MERS-CoV. 76%are aware of the preventive measures against MERS -CoV.68%. Are aware of the incubation period of MERS-CoV. 74%aware of PCR as a diagnostic test for MERS-CoV. This study concluded that dental students had strong awareness and knowledge of MERS. Also, there are a few differences in information and behaviours that require change. Large-scale health educational programs on MERS also should be facilitated by professional organizations to expand their reach and to strengthen knowledge to have a positive impact on their behaviour.


Author(s):  
Govindarajan Sumathy ◽  
Bhaskaran Sathyapriya ◽  
Balasubramanian Chandrakala ◽  
Jinu Merlin Koshy ◽  
Jayamathi Govindaraj ◽  
...  

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 275-285
Author(s):  
Politis Constantinus ◽  
◽  
Schuermans Annette ◽  
Lagrou Katrien ◽  
Putte Mia Vande ◽  
...  

Background The COVID-19 pandemic does not leave the dental practice unattended. In Part 1 the reason why measures should be taken was explored. Objective The objective is to review the measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of tranmission in the dental practice. Data Sources These measures can be classified according to the guidelines of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Study Selection A qualitative approach explores the applicability of these guidelines to the dental practice. Data Extraction In order to prevent aerosol transmission in the dental practice a large number of changes are needed. It concerns hygiene protocols, organizational protocols and architectural changes, none of which are backed by a legal framework. Conclusion Until a vaccination program is introduced to counter the COVID-19 pandemic in a country, the dental society will need to take measures to prevent aerosol transmission in the dental office. The pyramid of measures according to NIOSH offers a suitable frame to classify all measures. Any legal regulatory intervention could use this framework.


Author(s):  
Reshmi Morris ◽  
Ronald Feinstein ◽  
Martin Fisher

Abstract Due to the growth of the epidemic of obesity and the association of obesity with both short-term and long-term medical complications, many professional organizations have recommended performing laboratory testing as part of the initial evaluation of overweight and obese children and adolescents. We report on the results of laboratory testing performed on 110 patients (mean age 14.0 years, range 8–20 years) referred to our weight management program between 2011 and 2013. Our results showed mild abnormalities in levels of cholesterol, glucose, liver enzymes, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in fewer than 5% of patients for each test and no changes in management based on these results for any of the patients. We call for re-consideration of the recommendations for laboratory testing in children and adolescents being evaluated and treated for overweight and obesity.


2018 ◽  
Vol 6 (9) ◽  
pp. 1722-1726 ◽  
Author(s):  
Redhwan A. Al-aslami ◽  
Fahiem M. M. Elshamy ◽  
Essamet M. Maamar ◽  
Ali Y. Shannaq ◽  
Abdulaziz E. Dallak ◽  
...  

AIM: The present study was aimed to assess the level of awareness and occupational hazards of dental students and professionals who are working at dental college and hospital, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data has been collected through a self-administrated questionnaire with closed questions. The questionnaire consisted of questions on personal information like age, gender, years of experience and awareness of occupational hazards, seminar attendance, safety measures practised, and experience of occupational hazard while in practice. Participants were asked to answer each questionnaire item as “yes” or “no”. The data were analysed with SPSS-Version and P-value was generated. RESULTS: Out of the 200 participants, 38.5% were females, and 62% were males. Differences were found significantly high between male and female subjects regarding neck shoulder pain, hand wrist pain, backache, and anxiety and routine use of a surgical cap (P < 0.05). Over 33% of the participants had attended workshops or conferences about the occupational hazards. 12.85% participants reported latex allergy and 74% of the participants vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Significant differences were found in the attitude of general dentists towards the preventive measures against the occupational hazards based on years of experience. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study are consistent with the previous studies. Specific psychological concerns related to the conditions and the environment of the practice at dental college and hospital, Jazan University were expressed because the majority of participants were students.


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