Delphi assessment of occupational hazards in Spanish dentists

• High exposure to chemical, physical, and psychosocial risks in Dentistry. • Rotary instruments are considered the highest risk by experts. • High transmission risk due to improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) against SARS-CoV-2. • Contact with sharp instruments poses significant occupational hazards. Despite technological advancements in dentistry, professionals remain exposed to numerous occupational hazards that compromise their health and well-being. These include chronic exposure to hazardous chemicals, aerosols, ionizing radiation, excessive noise, and significant ergonomic and psychosocial stressors. A review of current scientific literature reveals persistent challenges for dental professionals, such as daily contact with harmful substances, invasive procedures, contaminated aerosols, radiation, noise, and a high prevalence of musculoskeletal and psychosocial disorders. These risks persist despite technological improvements and continue to hinder the development of a strong culture of occupational health and safety within the profession. This study aimed to assess occupational risks in dental clinics by analyzing expert opinion through the Delphi method. A panel of 18 experts, each with over ten years of experience, participated. Results indicated that “rotary dental instruments (e.g., turbines, contra-angle handpieces)” were consistently rated as the highest risk (mean score: 3.50). In the deviation category, the “risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission due to inappropriate PPE use” received the highest scores (3.83 and 3.61). In the contact category, “exposure to sharp, cutting, or abrasive instruments/materials” was rated highest (3.94 and 3.78). The study concludes that rotary instruments and sharp tools contribute significantly to the generation of potentially pathogenic bioaerosols and elevate the risk of infection. While strict safety protocols are essential, they may impair working conditions by reducing visibility, fogging protective eyewear, limiting breathability, and increasing humidity factors associated with decreased efficiency and increased stress among dental professionals.