Infection Control in the Dental Office in the Era of COVID-19

"Infection Control in Dentistry: Post-COVID Strategies for Safe Oral Healthcare"

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the landscape of healthcare delivery—and dentistry was no exception. This timely and essential guide explores the evolving standards of infection prevention in dental practice following the global COVID-19 crisis, equipping oral health professionals with the knowledge and protocols needed to safely deliver care in a post-pandemic world.

From the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 to the emergence of new, more transmissible variants, the pandemic has underscored the importance of robust infection control measures in all clinical settings. This book outlines the latest evidence-based strategies to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission during dental procedures, with special emphasis on aerosol management, vaccination, and surgical protocols.

Chapters cover infection control during high-risk procedures such as implant placements, oral surgery, nitrous oxide administration, and IV sedation, as well as best practices for managing dental unit water lines and reducing biofilm contamination. The book also examines the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases (e.g., measles, mumps, polio, HPV) and other emerging respiratory threats such as Influenza and RSV.

In addition, the book addresses the indirect consequences of the pandemic, including rising rates of STDs, new blood-borne infections (HIV, HBV, HCV), and healthcare-associated infections caused by drug-resistant “superbugs.” It offers practical, science-driven insights to support dental professionals in navigating this complex and continually evolving landscape.

Key Features

• Post-pandemic protocols for infection prevention in modern dental practice
• Guidance on aerosol reduction strategies, including high-efficiency evacuation and air purification systems
• In-depth discussion on vaccines and vaccination policies, with a focus on preventing resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases
• Coverage of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, including RSV, Influenza, and blood-borne pathogens
• Infection control during invasive dental procedures, such as:
• Implant placements
• Oral surgeries
• N₂O sedation
• IV sedation
• Safe management of dental unit water lines and equipment sanitation
• Impact of the pandemic on oral healthcare systems, including rising STDs and superbug threats
• Evidence-based practices with real-world application for both private practice and institutional settings
•  Essential for general dentists, dental hygienists, oral surgeons, infection control officers, and dental educators
•  Helps meet updated regulatory compliance and safety standards in a post-COVID dental world