DHCP must wear face masks in order to protect themselves from exposure to infectious organisms spread through inhaling aerosol spray from handpieces, air-water syringes, and/or splashes.
- DHCP are required to wear face masks or respirators when performing the following:
- Patient treatment procedures
- Using disinfecting solutions
- Cleaning, packaging, and sterilizing contaminated instruments.
- Face Masks should:
- Fit the face well
- Be worn over the nose and pinched at the bridge of the nose, and secured (or stable) under the chin
- Be changed between patients or during treatment if they become visibly soiled or moist
- Never be worn below the nose or hang down from under the chin or hang off of the ear
- Be disposed of after each patient
- There are several different types of face masks available and range in filtration levels and come in many different styles.
- Respirators are also required for certain DHCP and for certain high aerosol generating dental procedures. These are known as N95s, KN95s, CAPRs, and PAPRs.
- DHCP wearing respirators MUST have a medical clearance, a fit test, and a Respiratory Protection Program must be included in the office’s IIPP.