Exposure to nano particles and new materials in dentistry

Dentists, dental technicians and dental assistants are exposed to various potentially dangerous substances. Work-related exposures can be attributed by application and processing materials having a sensitizing, toxic, fibrogenic or carcinogenic capability. Dental materials like composites or zirconium ceramics are used increasingly. These materials may contain nano scale structures in original or release nanoscale structures by being processed. Their effects are often not known and therefore not calculable to this day. For a medical survey on effects of nanoscale particles and new or special materials we established an extensive research program which was offered to 26 individuals (13 male and 13 female: 10 dentists, 5 dental technicians, 2 dental assistants and 9 students). In 12 participants a variable or manifest obstructive ventilation disorder was diagnosed by bodyplethysmography. Pre- and postexpositional spirometry also showed a work-related obstruction of airway in 12 examined members of staff partially with a diurnal or weekly dynamic. In 6 out of 12 persons with airway obstruction, an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to ubiquitous allergenes could be identified as well, that is probably a sign for a not work-related causal connection. In one person long-standing cigarette smoking was the most probable reason for airway obstruction. No trigger allergene for airway obstruction was found in 4 members of staff and 1 freshman to this day. An occupational impact can not be excluded at least in these members of staff. The lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) didn't show a positive reaction to beryllium in any participant. In contrast a positive reaction to zirconium in the LTT could be proven in 4 persons. In 1 participant a sensitization on zirconium could not be definitely excluded. Three of these were dentists and 2 advanced students. Dentists showed the highest H2O2-concentration in exhaled breath condensate, followed by the dental assistants - probably indicating a work-related causal connection. Due to the proven airway obstruction on one hand and the sensitization on zirconium on the other hand, further occupational and preventing measures are recommended.