Introduction: Filtering facepiece respirators (FFR) are the most commonly used with the N95 FFR being the most
popular overall. The number 95 signifying that it is at least 95% efficient in filtering particles. Elastomeric respirators are
available as alternatives to disposable half mask filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs), such as N95 FFRs, comparatively
elastomeric respirators have been found to have 60% higher filtration performance. Previous reports highlighted that
difficulty in breathing resulted in limited tolerability when the N95 face mask was used for a prolonged period.
Objectives: To evaluate and compare the physiological effect of N95 FFR and 3M elastomeric respirators on dental
surgeons.
Methodology: The study included 48 participants divided into 2 groups of 24 subjects each. Group 1 and Group 2
included participants using 3M elastomeric respirators and N95 FFR and respectively. Non-smokers and systemically
healthy participants were included and the oxygen saturation, pulse rate and respiratory rate readings were taken
before the start of the procedure, 30 mins after the start of the procedure and after the completion of procedure with a
standard fingertip pulse-oximeter.
Conclusion: N95 FFR is acknowledged by the majority of dental professionals, although the majority experienced
several perceived side effects. 3M elastomeric respirators have few advantages over the conventional N95 masks and
can be an effective alternative to N95 FFR.
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