Infection control practices in dental clinics of Al-Jouf region, Saudi Arabia: A cross sectional study.

Dental practices have been associated with an increased risk of transmission of infections between patients and dentists, or among patients. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in dental care settings of the Ministry of Health in Al-Jouf region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled dental healthcare workers (DHCWs; dentists and dental assistants) working at dental clinics of the Ministry of Health. A structured questionnaire collected data including demographics and work characteristics of the study participants. Results: The study recruited 159 DHCWs (response rate= 91.4%). Hand washing was reported by 84.9% after patient treatment, 45.5% before patient treatment, and 30.2% before donning gloves. More than 89% of DHCWs frequently used gloves and masks during dental procedures, changing gloves between patients, and using single syringes for local anesthetic injections. Less than 50% always used sterile gloves, disposable gowns, and eyewear for surgery. More than 87% reported using sterilizing burs all the time. More than 50% reported always immersing used instruments in decontaminant solutions, sterilizing hand pieces, and disinfecting impressions before being sent to the laboratory. HBV vaccination rate was 87.4%. Dentists with a bachelor’s degrees or higher were more compliant with IPC practices compared to the less qualified dental support staff. Conclusion: Dental IPC practices of DHCWs in Al-Jouf region showed a need to focus more on their importance and implementation among both dentists and support staff via continuous training programs and continuous supervision.