Integrative review: how to check and control aerosol and splash dispersion in dental practice

Abstract

Background: The production of aerosols and sprays is one of the concerns in the spread of infections in the dental office. Aim: To identify the methods used to determine the presence of contaminating agents and the dispersion of aerosols during dental treatments. Method: An integrative review of articles published from 1995 to August 2020 was carried out; laboratory studies of biological samples were included on methods for verifying aerosol contamination that included the variables dwell time, distance and means for control. Twenty-three articles were selected on methods to verify contamination on office surfaces, determine the presence, distance and dwell time of sprays generated during treatments with rotary instruments, as well as measures to reduce contamination. The results of these studies were used to ensure biosafety standards for professionals and patients, sanitation and disinfection process of dental premises and equipment. Results: The most used method was the collection of samples on surfaces with culture in Petri dishes; sprays found 1.82 m from the patient’s oral cavity with 30 minutes of permanence in the air. To reduce microbial load, the studies propose the use of personal protective equipment, air purification systems, mouthwashes, cleaning and disinfection of the dental office. Conclusions: There are different methods to identify contaminating agents and aerosol dispersion during dental treatments. It is important to take extreme measures, established after the COVID-19 pandemic in daily practice, in addition to the correct use of personal protective equipment, to guarantee biosafety standards for professionals and patients, sanitation and disinfection process of dental premises and equipment.