Evaluation of Noise in Paediatric Dentistry and Change in Perception of Operators with Use of Ear Protection Devices.

Background: Noise sources in paediatric dental offices include machinery and children's cries and screams. Although the presence of occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) among dental operators is established, preventive measures such as ear protection devices (EPDs) are not frequently employed as prophylactic intervention. The primary aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the noise levels in paediatric dental clinics and to qualitatively evaluate the operators' perception of noise with and without the use of EPDs.

Methods: A crossover study was conducted with 93 operators; half of whom first worked without EPD, and the other half worked with EPD. Sound produced near each operator was recorded in decibels (dBs) for five working days, and the maximum sound in decibel for each day was noted and averaged. The results were then compared with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) exposure limits. A questionnaire was handed out before the commencement of the study, and another at the end of the study.

Results: The average noise level was 86.68 dB without EPD and 86.83 dB with EPD. About 65.59% dentists considered the level of noise at their workplace to be medium level, and 98.92% did not wear EPD. Most common findings, such as irritability at the end of the day (77.42%), were relieved after use of EPD in 92.47% dentists.

Conclusion: The noise in the paediatric department is above the NOISH-recommended exposure limit, which is harmful to the auditory system. In general, dentists are knowledgeable about the noise in the operatory, although their knowledge about EPDs is not high.