Patient saliva was found not to be the major source of the microbes in aerosols generated during dental procedures, according to Ohio State University researchers, who analyzed the genetic makeup of the organisms detected in aerosols.
   
The findings, published May 12 in the Journal of Dental Research, is the latest study to demonstrate that visiting the dentist remains safe, with low risk for transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARS-CoV-2 spreads mainly through respiratory droplets, and dental procedures are known to produce an abundance of aerosols, which led to fears that saliva during a cleaning or a restorative procedure could make the dentist's chair a high-risk location.
   
“These findings should help us open up our practices, make ourselves feel safe about our environment and, for patients, get their oral and dental problems treated,” said lead author Purnima Kumar, D.D.S., Ph.D., professor of periodontology at Ohio State, in a news release.

“Getting your teeth cleaned does not increase your risk of COVID-19 infection any more than drinking a glass of water from the dentist’s office does,” added Dr. Kumar, a member of the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.

Read more on ADA.org. 

Read More