Dental radiographic procedures during COVID-19 outbreak and normalization period: recommendations on infection control

Abstract

Dental professionals have always been meticulous about infection control due to high risk of cross-contamination during dental procedures. Nevertheless, there is an urgent need to review and revise our current practice of infection control and develop more strict protocols that will prevent nosocomial spread of infection during COVID-19 outbreak and future pandemics. The risk of contamination is high during dental radiography if proper disinfection techniques are not applied. This document provides advice and guidance for infection control when practicing dental radiography during COVID-19 pandemic.

Recommendations, Practices and Infrastructural Model for the Dental Radiology Set-up in Clinical and Academic Institutions in the COVID-19 Era

“…However, most dental radiology set-up is air conditioned with closed ventilation (no windows). Hence, inadvertently puts the HCWs in dental radiology units along with patients at risk [ 10 ]. The reflex of cough or sneeze produces aerosols which will stay suspended in air of enclosed offices/clinics for a longer duration [ 14 ].…”

“…For maintaining hand hygiene, automatic or foot-controlled hand sanitizer dispenser should be stationed at key places. To reinforce the norms of distancing, etiquette to be displayed while speaking and coughing and hand hygiene, placards with easy description of the measures should be placed at multiple, strategic places [ 10 ]. Enclosed boxes of disposable masks and gloves should be kept in the waiting area and at the entrance of operatory room.…”

“…Centre for disease control (CDC) guidelines for infection control protocols in dental radiology were given in 2003 [ 33 ]. The protocols need to be frequently reviewed and updated with emergence of new evidences [ 10 ]. Every HCW should be aware and committed towards its implementation in the routine functioning of the dental radiology office.…”

“…The preparation includes the disinfection of the surfaces which come in constant contact with surface disinfectants such as sodium hypoclocite (NaOCl) in the concentration of 0.1% or 0.5%. Alternatively 70–90% ethanol or 0.5% hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) can be utilized [ 10 ]. Any surface which comes in contact with patients as well as doctors/technicians are considered potential source of contamination, hence all such surfaces needs to covered with plastic barrier films.…”

“…Hence oral radiology offices can be a nidus for the spread of infection if strict precautions are not considered. For the safety of radiology staff and patients it is recommended to revise screening and clinical protocols of procedures [ 10 ].…”