Transmission and post-exposure management of bloodborne virus infections in dental practice

Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens is a well-recognised hazard to health care workers. Transmission is most likely to be from patient to Dental Health Care Personnel (DHCP), who frequently contacts blood and blood-contaminated saliva during dental procedures. Exposures that might place DHCP at risk of HBV, HCV, or HIV infection include percutaneous injuries (eg, a needlestick or cut with a sharp object), or contact with potentially infectious blood, tissues, or other body fluids. This review will focus upon the available pertinent scientific information concerning the transmission and post- xposure management of hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV in the dental health care setting.