Sound Environment during Dental Treatment in Relation to COVID-19 Pandemic

This study delves into the acoustic environment within dental clinics, particularly focusing on the impact of extraoral suction devices employed for infection control amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The research encompasses a comprehensive investigation, including a questionnaire survey of dental professionals, sound level measurements at suction device openings, acoustic imaging, and a detailed analysis of sound levels and their spectral characteristics during dental procedures. Additionally, ambient sound levels within clinical settings were monitored over two consecutive days. The findings reveal notable observations. Dental professionals expressed concerns regarding increased sound levels and associated distress caused by extraoral suction device operation. Objective measurements identified varying A-weighted sound pressure levels ranging from 86.0 dB to 96.7 dB at suction device openings, highlighting elevated sound pressure levels and a wide frequency range, especially in the vicinity of both the dentist and the patient's facial area during dental aerosol procedures. On the other hand, for the entire clinical room, the equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level during the consultation hours was not considered problematic. In light of these findings, it becomes evident that there is a pressing necessity to refine the acoustic characteristics of extraoral suction devices to foster a more accommodating acoustic environment for both patients and dental healthcare professionals within dental clinics.