Effects of Wearing Face Mask and Visor on Oxygen Saturation Levels Among Dentists

Aim To evaluate the effect of wearing N95 face mask and visor on pulse and saturation of dentists over different time intervals.Methodology Baseline pulse and oxygen saturation level of healthy participants were checked and recorded using pulse oximeter on the second finger of right hand. All were asked to wear N95 masks and visor and the mask position did not vary during the procedures never below the nose. Pulse oximeter values were recorded at the end of every 30 minutes for a total of 2 hrs.Result The pulse and oxygen saturation values obtained were analysed using paired T test. There was a drop in oxygen saturation seen after 60 minutes but it was not statistically significant. There was no significant change in pulse of dentists wearing N95 masks and visors over different time intervals.Conclusion Wearing of N95 masks and visor does not have any significant change in pulse and oxygen saturation of dentists over different time intervals.