Effectiveness of Disposable Face Masks in Preventing Cross Contamination during Dental Procedures

Abstract

Aerosols generated by the air turbine handpiece contain oral microorganisms that are a potential health hazard to the dentist. The effectiveness of different face masks in preventing cross contamination varied greatly but in all instances was significant.

Efficacy of three face masks in preventing inhalation of airborne contaminants in dental practice

“…A series of studies all performed between the 1970s and early 1990s examined-from the dentist's point of view-the filtering abilities of surgical face masks. 10,11,[15][16][17][18][19] However, more up-to-date studies are required to assess the relative filtering efficacy of available face masks used by dentists and dental team members, including disposable particulate respirators. (To our knowledge, ours is the first study to assess the filtering efficacy of a certified respirator specifically designed to protect the operator.)…”

“…Furthermore, although the bicarbonate dust we used included particles of variable dimensions (< 1-300 µm) to mimic the clinical setting, we are unable to provide information about the relative penetration of different-sized particles, including the smallest ones (< 5 µm), which are thought to be particularly hazardous. 10,11 Future studies are needed to investigate these relevant considerations with other masks in current use.…”

“…[7][8][9] Particulate matter in the 1-to 5-µm range is considered the most hazardous because it can reach the terminal bronchioli and nonciliated alveoli. 10,11 It has been reported that 95 percent of the particles measure less than 5 µm in diameter; 75 percent of these are contaminated by microorganisms. 12 Furthermore, the particles are concentrated mainly within 2 meters of the patient, where they easily can be inhaled by dental operators.…”

“…Various studies have been performed on the filtering efficacy of different general-purpose surgical face masks. 10,11,[15][16][17][18][19] In 1971, Micik and colleagues 11 exposed 15 general-purpose surgical face masks to aerosols comparable to those generated during dental procedures and found that only those made of glass or synthetic fiber displayed relatively high filtering efficiency. In 1987, Pippin and colleagues 18 showed that even when masks were worn correctly, the airflow during inhalation could bypass the mask material, resulting in reduced filtering efficacy and an increased health risk for dental operators.…”

Viability of Bacteria in High-Speed Dental Drill Aerosols with Antimicrobial Agents in the Water Coolant System

“…Methods that have been shown to be effective toward this end, such as ultraviolet irradiation, aerosolized chemical disinfectants, and good air filtration'7 or laminar air purge,18 all require structural alterations of the operatories. The use of masks and eye shields designed for both patient and dentist have been studied by Baily et al, 19 Travaglini and Larato,20 and Kortsch.2' However, a mouthrinse has only a slight effect on the oral microbial flora; and the masks, with the exception of bulky fiber glass filter masks'9-21 are, for the most part, ineffective.…”