The ADA recently came out with interim mask and face shield guidelines for dental practitioners. With changing recommendations from the CDC, Bryant Consultants wants to ensure dentists and their staff are informed of the differences between various masks that are available in order to ensure that you and your employees utilize the appropriate PPE.
Understanding Mask Types
Level 1 – You’re probably familiar with surgical masks. Cleared for use by the Food and Drug Administration, these loose-fitting masks are commonly used among dental offices. There is no specific sizing available in these masks as they are one-size-fits-all. Surgical masks are appropriate for use to provide the wearer protection against large droplets, splashes, or sprays from bodily fluids. And, the mask protects patients from the wearer’s emissions as well. These masks are designed for as a one time use and are to be discarded after each patient.
Level 2 – A step above surgical masks are N95 masks, which are evaluated and approved by NIOSH. Available in various sizes for the most effective fit, N95 masks protect the wearer against small particle aerosols and large droplet (non-oil) aerosols. To ensure you have an authentic N95 mask, OSHA recommends verifying the authenticity of the masks before relying upon them for protection. N95 masks provide a tight fit around the face, and the seal should be checked each time the mask is adjusted or put on. Ideally, N95 masks should be discarded after each use where aerosol was emitted from a patient when the mask becomes damaged, is visibly wet, or contaminated with bodily fluids.
Level 3 – Similar to N95 masks are FDA Emergency Use Authorization masks including, KN95, and N95 equivalent masks, also referred to as respirators. These masks adhere to the same guidelines and sizing as a traditional N95, but are deemed for emergency use. These N95 equivalent masks also provide similar protection as a standard N95 mask. Be sure to purchase these respirators from authorized dealers.
How do I check the seal on my mask or respirator?
Masks are only effective if worn properly. A faulty seal or a mask that does not seal properly is not going to provide adequate protection. Watch this video on how to check the seal on your mask. The seal should be checked every time your mask is donned (put on). It is important to note that facial hair can interfere with the mask’s ability to provide adequate protection. Follow the CDC’s guidelines on facial hairstyles and wearing PPE.
Face Shields and Goggles
To reduce your risk of coming in contact with infectious diseases, including COVID-19, also wear a face shield and goggles, if available. Understand that not wearing these items increases your risk of infection. It should be assumed that every patient is at risk of having COVID-19 because they may be infectious even before symptoms appear.
Should I wear a gown, shoe coverings, and headcovers?
Deciding whether to outfit your entire staff with additional protective gear is entirely up to each practice. Use your own discretion as to whether or not you and your staff should wear these protective items.
Keep in mind that wearing PPE does not entirely eliminate, but instead, reduces your risk of infection. Dentists also should be aware of the local laws, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to operating under the current pandemic.
If you would like to learn more or schedule a complimentary one-hour consultation, please contact Bryant Consultants by calling (877) 768-4799. We provide consultation, training, and coaching and will continue to post relevant updates regarding the coronavirus pandemic. To ensure that you receive the latest updates, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
