AWARENESS ON RESPIRATORY HEALTH IN DENTAL LABORATORY AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AND DENTAL TECHNICIANS - A QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory system is the network of several tissues and organs which helps in breathing. When we breathe, we inhale oxygen and exhale CO2 . The so-called exchange of gases is necessary for metabolic activities and can be considered a chemical process.Every organism, from an individual bacterial cell to a mighty blue whale, undergoes respiration.

AIM: This study aimed to assess awareness about respiratory diseases among students and dental technicians in dental laboratories.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among students and dental technicians at a private dental College, Chennai. The survey was conducted among 111 students and dental technicians. Interviewer Administered questionnaire was used and the collected data was analysed using chi-square test.

RESULT: About 54% of respondents were males whereas the rest 46% of the respondents were females. About 52% of people are aware that working in a dental laboratory may cause some respiratory problems. About 48% of people do not know that working in dental laboratories would cause some respiratory problems

CONCLUSION: This study concludes that some people have symptoms of respiratory health problems due to working environments in dental laboratories and most of the dental students and dental technicians are aware of the problems caused due to the working environment of dental laboratories but further training should be provided regarding the respiratory safety measurements for the dental students and technicians.