Assessment of Dental Noise Environment of a Pediatric Dentist

Abstract

The noise is defined as unwanted sound that causes discomfort and physical changes. This study was conducted to evaluate intensity of noise in the pediatric dental clinic and to investigate noise environment of a pediatric dentist. Human ear shaped microphone and mobile noise level meter were used for recording noise and calculating intensity of noise.<br/>By recording according to the method specified by Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) of Korea Ministry of labor and employment, the following results were obtained. For 16 experimental days, 8 hour time weighted average (8hr-TWA) was 49.33 dBA (A-weighted deci-Bell) on daily average with maximum 58.54 dBA and minimum 33.97 dBA. And Dose was 0.49% on daily average with maximum 1.28%, minimum 0.04%. These values are less than criteria of KOSHA standard (85 dBA, 100%). Comparing the highest noise level for each patient, pulp therapy group and Frankel grade I group were the highest.<br/>The intensity of dental noise of pediatric dental clinic didn’t meet standard of KOSHA. It is necessary to re-evaluate noise environment by establishing new standards considering environment of pediatric dental clinic.