The purpose of this article is to review the occupational hazards related to the practice of Dentistry. The classification of hazards is based on major sources of risk by system or tissue and by dental office area (dental chair, laboratory, sterilization area, x-ray developing area). Potentially hazardous factors relate to the general practice setting; to specific materials and tools that expose the operator to vision and hearing risks; to chemical substances with known allergenic, toxic, or irritating actions; to increased microbial counts and silica particles of the aerosols produced during tooth preparation, removal of restorations; to ergonomic considerations that might have an impact on the provider's musculoskeletal system; and to psychological stress with proven undesirable sequalae. The identification and elimination of these risk factors should be incorporated into a standard practice management program as an integral part of dental education. Professional organizations can also assist in informing practitioners of potential hazards and methods to deal with them. How to cite this article Poorya Naik DS, Chetan S, Gopal Krishna BR, Naveen S. An overview of occupational hazards in dental practice and preventive measures. CODS J Dent 2014;6;19-25

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