Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to identify, synthesize, and compare all the current information on the efficacy of dental masks, emphasizing their use, types, and filters to prevent the spread and infection of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. A bibliographic search of the main scientific databases was carried out using the words "masks, COVID-19, and dentistry." Articles without language restriction up to May 31, 2020, were obtained. The types of masks, their half-life, method to use, sterilization, and proposed alternatives for dental masks were analyzed. Most of the articles refer to the use of N95 or FFP2 respirators presented as a strategy to extend the life of the masks and limited reuse. Regarding sterilization, most of the articles presented studies using ultraviolet germicidal irradiation as the sterilization method. Regarding respirator mask half-life, we recommend prolonged use, combined with a disposable surgical mask over the respirator mask. Finally, the use of N95 or FFP2 respirators are recommended as part of personal protective equipment for dental use.
Highlights
The purpose of this investigation was to identify, synthesize, and compare all the current information on the efficacy of dental masks, emphasizing their use, types, and filters to prevent the spread and infection of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
The latter is classified as the most effective for presenting a microbial barrier and resistance to splashes, offering a filtration rate of around 80%.18,20. They are designed for protection in only 1 direction to avoid the transmission of infectious agents carried by the user. They prevent the passage of microorganisms present from the inside out; the use of these masks is recommended for COVID-19 patients.[19,21,22]
The use of an N95, FFP2, and FFP3 mask is recommended for personnel working with aerosols
Summary
The purpose of this investigation was to identify, synthesize, and compare all the current information on the efficacy of dental masks, emphasizing their use, types, and filters to prevent the spread and infection of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. To ensure good clinical practice, health professionals must comply with a set of rules and behaviors to reduce the risk of contracting infections through the use of protective barriers in each procedure, consisting in the use of scrubs, gowns, hats, disposable gloves, protective glasses, and masks.[10,11] According to the manufacturers, surgical masks must achieve efficient filtration, resistance to fluids, pressure differential, and flammability. These masks must create a hermetic seal against the skin, preventing the passage of particles, such as aerosols or splashes that may contain bacteria or viruses. Fear of the spread of serious respiratory diseases persists, as in the case of the recent coronavirus pandemic and is largely due to the current lack of effective antiviral
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