Effect of Various Dental Materials on the Indoor Air Quality

OBJECTIVES:The dental office uses a large number of biomaterials and disinfectants during the operating hours, but very limited information and research exists on the effect of these materials on the indoor air quality. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the indoor air quality in selected dental clinic in Athens,Greece. METHODS:More specifically TVOCs concentrations was measured when vials containing Eugenol, Copalite,Harry Bosworth (varnish), Scotchbond I,3M ( bonding agent) and Kalocryl model resin catalyst were opened . In addition, measurements were taken when a surface disinfectant (Bacillol, Bode) was used. For each material three measurements were taken a. In 0 mm distance from the vial b. 1.5 m from the vial and c. 4 m from the vial. For the measurement of the emissions a portable, high sensitivity TVOCs PID monitor ppbRAE type (model PGM-7240),for indoor and outdoor measurements and a portable multiple indications monitor (IAQRAE,Model PGM-5210) were used . RESULTS:The results revealed extremely high concentrations of TVOCs compared with the internationally accepted value of 300 ìgr/m3. For the Eugenol, Copalite and Scotchbond I samples in 0 distance, the values were 2000, 7000 and 12000 ìgr/m3 respectively. For the Kalocryl and Bacillol samples the values in the 0 distance measurements were 40.000 and 120.000 ìgr/m3 respectively. CONCLUSIONS:From the analysis of the data it seems that in the dental offices using polymeric materials and volatile disinfectants, it is essential to improve the ventilation procedures in order to prevent the occupants (doctors, personnel and patients) from inhaling high pollutant concentrations.