Hygiene in dental practices

Authors:

ABSTRACT

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the hygienic quality of dental practices on the basis of the self-awareness
expressed by dentists respondents to a self-reported questionnaire about the health/hygiene characteristics of practice, the knowledge
of biologic/toxicological risks and the preventive procedures and devices improvements in professional practice. MATERIALS AND

Methods

Of the 127 practitioners contacted, 108 (85) agreed to participate. The knowledge of infective risks was self-
evaluated as good only in 24: even if vaccinated, most of the dentists (57) considered HBV the main infective agent to
fear, not giving the same importance to the air-borne transmission of diseases. The presence of a single dental unit per surgery
(90) was considered an index of good health/hygiene education but, in spite of the use of disposable gloves, caps and masks,
the dentists do not always change their coats or wash their hands between patients yet. The management of dental instruments can be
considered efficient as long as they are sterilised in an autoclave (97) and undergo periodic sterilization efficacy tests
(76). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The results indicate a good structural and organisational status, but there is the need for
continuous education concerning the prevention of cross-infections.

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