Eye- Related Trauma and Infection in Dentistry

Abstract

Despite numerous technological and medical developments achieved in recent years, a significant amount of occupational health problems still exist in modern dentistry. The risk of eye injury is mostly attributed to the use of high-speed hand pieces and ultrasonic devices. A dental clinic may be the source of eye-related infection and injury because of mechanical, chemical, microbiological and electromagnetic irritants. Accidents may cause facial injuries that involve eyes of the clinicians, patients as well as dental assistants. Eye injuries can vary from mild irritation to blindness. The use of eye protection tools, such as protective goggles and visors, reduces the risk of eye damage or complete loss of vision while working with dangerous and floating materials. Therefore, all precautions should be taken, even when performing common procedures for which the risk expectancy is relatively low. Clinicians should be aware that they are also responsible for providing adequate protection for their assistants and patients, as well as themselves.

Awareness and compliance of dental students and interns toward infection control at Riyadh Elm University

“…The importance of protective eyewear was found to be in the interest of both dentist and patient due to the hazards associated with aerosols and floating debris. The use of eye protections with side shields, and regular monitoring of its structural integrity, reduces the risk of conjunctivitis, eye damage or even complete loss of vision [8]. …”

“…The eyes are at particular risk from floating particles, which are considered serious hazards for DHCW, because they can transmit various microorganisms, e.g., cytomegalovirus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis , hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses (HBV and HCV), Herpes simplex virus type 1, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), streptococci, transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (including variant CJD), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus transmitted through direct and indirect contact [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17]. …”

“…Therefore, DHCW are at risk every day, because at normal working distances, there is no zone of safety for the risk of cross-infection. The danger is enhanced by the fact that some hazardous microorganisms remain in the air for up to 30 minutes after cavity excavation, and the fact that most human microbial pathogens have been isolated from oral secretions [7], [8], [18], [19], [20]. …”

Lasers in Dentistry-Double Edged Sword

“…Wavelengths from 400-1,400 nm (visible and near-infrared) can pass through the transparent structures at the front of the eye and impact on the retina. Longer wavelengths (2,780-10,600 nm, mid-to farinfrared) will interact with the cornea [16,17]. In terms of the scope for repair, retinal injuries are more serious [18][19][20][21].…”

Risk of eye infections in dental personnel and the need for its prevention: a case report

“…Dental professionals are bound to take necessary precautions to prevent eye related injuries [2]. Previously cases have been reported which have shown a connection between dental treatment and ocular irritation [3,4].…”