Dental Bio Aerosols - Ignored Occupational Hazard

An aerosol is a suspension of solid or liquid particles in air or other gaseous environment. Sources of
bacterial aerosols exist within and outside the dental clinic. The generation of bacterial aerosols and
splatters appears to be highest during dental procedures. The use of rotary dental and surgical
instruments and air-water syringes generates visible infectious spray, that enclose large-particle
spatter of water, saliva, microorganisms, blood, and other debris. Several infectious diseases could be
transmitted to staff and patients by airborne bacterial and other contaminants in the dental clinic. The
vigilant use of barriers along with appropriate immunizations procedures could safe guard the dental
fraternity from the ill-effects of the aerosols.