Infection Control in Dentistry

Pradhan, Devina
Author has done her graduation (BDS), post-graduation (MSc) from The University of Northampton and her Masters of Dental Surgery (MDS) in Public Health Dentistry.The author has various national and international publications and awards won to her credit.Presently, she is working as an Assistant Professor in Department of Public Health Dentistry.

The purpose of infection control in dental practice is to prevent the transmission of disease-producing agents such as bacteria, viruses and fungi from one patient to another patient, from dental practitioner and dental staff to patients, and from patients to dental practitioner or other dental staff. In addition, it is necessary that endogenous spread of infection also be prevented by limiting the spread of infectious agents. Based on the evidence, information, and rules, local to either the country or region, high standards of dental infection control & occupational safety must be followed by the dental team for the safety of the patients and dental healthcare workers. Dental practitioners face many unique situations when treating patients and especially children. Children and adolescents have varying levels of physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development. Dental practitioners are regularly challenged to meet the psychological needs of their young patients while maintaining appropriate infection control practices.