Aerosols –A Concern for Dentists

Aerosols and splatter produced during many dental procedures are a potential source of transmission of various diseases to dentist in a dental clinic. Aerosols are solid or liquid particles suspended in air with a diameter of less than 50 μm and airborne particles larger than 50 μm size are called as splatter. Microbial aerosols and splatter are generated during the use of high speed handpieces, ultrasonic sclaers and air – water syringing. After the procedure is finished, airborne bacteria can remain suspended in air and settle some time later. The need for universal precautions is proven by so many researches. There is no single measure to adopt to prevent this but combination of all including use of masks, gloves, pre procedural mouthrinses for patients, rubber dams and high volume evacuation to ensure best protection to dentists.