Title
Effectiveness and Recommendations for the Use of Dental Masks in the Prevention of COVID-19: A Literature Review
Date Issued
2021
Access level
open access
Resource Type
journal article
Author(s)
Arellano-Cotrina J.J.
Marengo-Coronel N.
Atoche-Socola K.J.
Publisher(s)
Cambridge University Press
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.
Start page
E43
End page
E48
Volume
15
Issue
5
Language
English
OCDE Knowledge area
Odontología, Cirugía oral, Medicina oral
Subjects
Scopus EID
2-s2.0-85092510261
PubMed ID
Source
Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
ISSN of the container
19357893
Sources of information:
Directorio de Producción Científica
Scopus