High Volume Evacuator (HVE) in reducing aerosol- an exploration worth by clinicians

Abstract

Dentists and dental hygienists deploying air-turbine hand pieces during cavity cutting, ultrasonic scalers and high-speed hand pieces get themselves exposed to air-borne contaminants like aerosols and splatter. Mucosal and nasal inhalation makes them susceptible to tuberculosis, hepatitis B & HIV because of established contact with respiratory secretions, saliva and blood splatter. Infection control practices have been advocated to prevent and minimize the exposure to aerosols through use of rubber dams, saliva ejectors, and pre-procedural rinse with 0.2% chlorhexidine before ultrasonic scaling. Universal precautions already in practice in dental establishments using gloves, protective eyewear with solid-side shields, face masks/chin-length plastic face shields, protective clothing (Aprons, Gowns, Clinic Jackets, Lab coats and Uniforms are helpful in containment of aerosols. High Volume Evacuator devices have been found to be efficient in substantive reduction of aerosols and should be exercised in routine dental procedures