Revista de Odontologia da UNESP
https://revodontolunesp.com.br/article/doi/10.1590/1807-2577.00325
Revista de Odontologia da UNESP
Original Article

Comparative study on the relationship between the use of a polymethyl methacrylate dome and the aerosol dispersion distance for contamination prevention in dentistry

Estudo comparativo sobre a relação entre o uso de domo de polimetilmetacrilato e a distância de dispersão de aerossóis para prevenção de contaminação em odontologia

Marcelo VILLACIS; Estefano CORNEJO; Yajaira VÁSQUEZ-TENORIO; Maurício Andres TINAJERO ARONI

http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1807-2577.00325 Rev. odontol. UNESP, vol.54, e20250003, 2025
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Abstract

Introduction: In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, biosafety protocols in dentistry have been intensified due to the high risk of aerosol contamination. This study aims to evaluate the spatial distribution of aerosols and the effectiveness of Prime Protector (protective dome) in simulated dental procedures, aiming to enhance protective measures in dental offices.

Objective: This study evaluated the spatial distribution of aerosols and the effectiveness of Prime Protector (protective dome) during aerosol-generating dental procedures.

Material and method: A simulation unit equipped with a dental simulator and working position was used. Cotton cellulose filter paper discs (12.5 cm in diameter) and adhesive tape were placed at distances of 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 meters in two different directions corresponding to the 12 and 2 o'clock positions on the clock. The procedures included scaling and dental prophylaxis in the upper incision, performed with or without a dome.

Result: At the end of the procedure, the filter papers were collected and the deposited droplets were counted. Significant differences were identified in the procedures applied (p=0.000), in the distances (p=0.000) and in the time of collection (p=0.000). Greater distance, shorter time after the procedure and the use of the dome reduced the aerosol droplets.

Conclusion: Prime Protector neutralizes the spatial propagation of aerosols during simulated dental procedures and increases biosafety, providing greater protection to dental office staff.

 

Keywords

Aerosols; biological risk containment; dentistry

Resumo

Introdução: Diante da pandemia de COVID-19, os protocolos de biossegurança em odontologia foram intensificados devido ao alto risco de contaminação por aerossóis. Este estudo visa avaliar a distribuição espacial de aerossóis e a eficácia do Prime Protector (domo protetor) em procedimentos odontológicos simulados, buscando melhorar as medidas de proteção nos consultórios dentários.

Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou a distribuição espacial de aerossóis e a eficácia do Prime Protector (domo protetor) durante procedimentos odontológicos geradores de aerossóis.

Material e método: Foi utilizada uma unidade de simulação equipada com um simulador dentário e de posição de trabalho. Discos de papel filtro de celulose de algodão (12,5 cm de diâmetro) e fita adesiva foram colocados a distâncias de 0,5, 1, 1,5 e 2 metros em duas direções diferentes correspondentes às posições 12 e 2 das horas do relógio. Os procedimentos incluíram raspagem e profilaxia dentária na incisão superior, realizados com ou sem cúpula.

Resultado: Ao final do procedimento, foram coletados os papéis de filtro e contadas as gotas depositadas. Identificaram-se diferenças significativas nos procedimentos aplicados (p=0,000), nas distâncias (p=0,000) e no momento da coleta (p=0,000). Maior distância, menor tempo após o procedimento e o uso da cúpula diminuíram as gotículas do aerossol.

Conclusão: O Prime Protector neutraliza a propagação espacial de aerossóis durante procedimentos odontológicos simulados e aumenta a biossegurança, proporcionando maior proteção à equipe dos consultórios odontológicos.

Palavras-chave

Aerossóis; contenção de riscos biológicos; odontologia

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Submitted date:
02/12/2025

Accepted date:
02/17/2025

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