PPEs are designed to protect the skin and the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth of dental practitioners from exposure to blood or other infectious materials. This is mandatory in specified circumstances.
Use of rotary dental and surgical instruments (e.g. hand-pieces or ultrasonic scalers) and air- water syringes creates a visible spray that contains primarily large- particle droplets of water, saliva, blood, microorganisms and other debris. This spatter travels only a short distance and settles down quickly, landing on the floor, nearby operatory surfaces, dental practitioners or the patient. The spray also might contain certain aerosols (i.e. particles of respirable size, < 10 µm) may remain airborne for extended periods and can be inhaled.
Primary PPE used in oral health-care settings includes gloves, surgical masks, protective eyewear, face shields and protective clothing (e.g. gowns and jackets).
All PPE should be removed before dental professionals leave patient- care areas.
Reusable PPE (e.g. clinician or patient protective eyewear and face shields) should be cleaned with soap and water when visibly soiled, disinfected between patients, according to the manufacturer's directions.
Wearing PPE reduces the risk of exposures to blood-borne pathogens.
General work clothes (e.g. uniforms, scrubs, pants and shirts) are neither intended to protect against a hazard nor considered PPE).
Disposable Gloves
Hands are properly sanitized and dried before donning gloves. A new pair of gloves is worn for every patient. Gloves are even changed if they appear to be contaminated during the treatment.
Disposable Caps
Worn by Doctors and Dental Assistants throughout the day covering every inch of their hair. These are used in keeping aerosols from lodging on the hair, which may then be transferred to family members or onto inanimate objects.
Face Masks
They work as protective shields and prevents splatters and aerosols from getting into contact with the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth. 3 ply Surgical Masks are used basis the type of treatment being done.
Protective Eyewear
Protective eyewear is worn by doctors whenever there is a possibility that a patient’s body fluids may splash or spray onto the face/eyes or an aerosol is being formed. Protective Eyewear is sanitised/sterilised after every use.
Protective Clothing
Protective clothing such as Scrubs prevent contamination of underlying clothing and protects from exposure to blood and body substances. Scrubs are worn by all Doctors throughout the day. They are then washed later in the evening.
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