Nigerian patients’ perception of infection control measures in dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: The growing prevalence of infectious diseases among patients in dentistry necessitates the need for appropriate compliance with recommended procedures for infection prevention and control cross-infection practices to prevent unnecessary spread of infections in the dental settings/clinics. Objective: To assess Nigerian patients’ perceptions on the use of gloves, facemasks and goggles by dentists in dental practice, as well as their knowledge on methods of sterilization and their awareness of cross-infection in dentistry. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional survey of patients attending the Periodontal Clinic of University of Benin teaching hospitals, Nigeria was conducted in 2009. Results: Of 405 patients who responded, 98.3% believed that dentists should always wear gloves when treating patients. Twenty (4.9%) of respondents believed that gloves protects dentists only and 79.5% would be reluctant to receive treatment if the dentist didn’t wear gloves. About one-fifth (21.2%) of the respondents believed that facemasks protects dentists only and 59.3% would be reluctant to receive treatment if the dentist didn’t wear a facemask. One-third (31.1%) of the respondents believed that dentists should always wear goggles when treating patients. The majority (96.8%) were concerned about sterilization of dental instruments used for their treatment but only 41.2% had ever asked the dentist how the instruments were sterilized. Awareness of cross infection in dental clinic was reported by 84.7%. Conclusion: This study revealed poor patient’s knowledge about infection control measures in dentistry. This data will serve in planning effective interventions to enhance public awareness about infection control in dentistry inBenin City,Nigeria.