Our profession is all about prevention of oral disease right. So are we considering prevention for issues we may be developing while at work like musculoskeletal disorders and HEARING loss.

The American Dental Association (ADA) states: Although the 90-99 decibel level of noise that is produced from some pieces of dental equipment may pose a relatively minimal risk to hearing, the daily exposure to that level, over years, may contribute to damage to the hair cells in the cochlea. In general, exposure for eight hours or longer to noise levels between 85-90 decibels is harmful.

To prevent hearing loss the ADA recommends: When using dental equipment, wear ear plugs or noise-canceling (over-the- ear) headphones. (CHECK OUT THESE FROM ZOUND)

In selecting dental equipment, consider its noise level as a factor in your purchasing decision
Have your hearing tested to establish a baseline of the status
Monitor your hearing acuity on a regular basis to have any problems correctly diagnosed and to benefit from early intervention

Source: https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/health-and-wellness/safety-tips-to-prevent-hearing-loss

Thanks to Zound for sending me earplugs to try

Here’s is what I found:

-They fit in your ears like regular earplugs

-They help to reduce noise, but you can still hear through them

-If a patient was soft spoken they were harder to hear

-At first I talked a bit louder with them in and had to adjust

-They clean easy with water

-I would say I am “sound sensitive” so I feel like having reduced noises in the office helped me to have a smoother day.

-If you are very serious about hearing protection (like if you use the ultrasonic all day for 40 hours per week) Consider chatting with your audiologist for possible creation of custom hearing protection.

Also, let’s play a game; can you NAME THAT DENTAL SOUND?

Hearing Protection for Dental Hygienists

Why I Attend Dental Hygiene Conferences

Nitrous Oxide Administration