Abstract

The use of high-speed instruments such as turbines, ultrasonic descalers and air-water spray guns results in significant concentrations of bioaerosols being emitted into dental office environments. The authors of this publication wanted to understand the problem of bioaerosol production and to better understand their composition and dispersion into the environment. What was found was that under certain conditions, dental office staff and patients can be exposed to the microorganisms present in the air, particularly bacteria from the mouth and from the water units. Repeated exposure of the personnel suggests that there is a probable risk of contact between aerosolized bacteria and the breathing system. With minimal ventilation, the stopping of treatments for two hours appears sufficient for the bioaerosol concentration to return to the level measured before treatment. The effectiveness of wearing a mask as a tool for exposure prevention remains to be determined.