Dental News - Dentists at risk for hearing loss

Fred Michmershuizen, DTI

Thu. 17 February 2011

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NEW YORK CITY: Everyone knows there are certain jobs that carry a risk for loss of hearing. Rock musicians come immediately to mind. So do construction workers who use jackhammers. And don’t forget the guys who use those yellow flashlights to direct planes at airports. According to experts, dentists are also among those at risk for ear trouble.

 Most individuals would not consider a dental office to be a place where noise is a problem, but the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) prescribes that any workers exposed to noise levels in excess of 85 decibels are at risk. The exposure to continuous high frequencies from a dental drill can degrade one’s hearing. According to the experts, dental professionals should use protective hearing devices.

Other professions that carry risk for hearing impairment are aviation, construction and anything that involves the use of firing guns, such as military and law enforcement careers.

According to the National Institute of Deafness, 36 million Americans suffer from hearing loss and those exposed to loud and high frequency noises are most at risk.

In most instances, individuals in the workplace do not test their hearing until after damage occurs. Hearing aid technology can help after damage has already occurred, but professionals recommend hearing protection if working in an environment with exposure to loud sounds.

There are many businesses, such as  The Tactical Hearing Co., that offer high-performance digital hearing enhancement and protection. Tactical Hearing Co. uses the latest advanced technologies and offers affordable hearing devices that can be used in industries of dentistry as well as construction, aviation, military and law enforcement, target shooting and hunting.

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