Learning Objectives:

• Review the pillars of the epidemiological triad of infectious disease
• Discuss the 3 most common bloodborne pathogens dental professionals are exposed to
• Analyze various particle sizes and their distributions generated during dental hygiene procedures
• Explore 5 new ways the dental hygienist can increase their infection protection while providing patient care

Dental hygiene has long been described as one of the most hazardous occupations due in part to the clinician’s constant exposure to infectious pathogens. The COVID-19 pandemic only served to heighten concerns, as the introduction of a highly transmissible virus challenged previously established standards in infection control. This course will explore the pathophysiology of common contaminants found in oral fluids, their impact on the oral healthcare provider, and the latest trends in infection prevention during hygiene-specific services.