© 2022 QuietOn
Do you know what the decibel level is in your workplace, and are you aware of the potentially harmful effects constant exposure to noise can have on your hearing? Do you want to be able to continue enjoying conversation, music and other listening pleasures later in life? If so, think about protecting your hearing today!
Dental professionals (dentists, hygienists, technicians etc.) are exposed to dental noise from several sources. Various studies show evidence of damage to hearing caused by dental noise. The dental noise levels are typically between 66-91dB(A), but for short periods may even exceed 100dB(A). 85dB(A) as daily or weekly average exposure is a commonly recommended limit for hearing protection. Risk for hearing damage increases rapidly above 90 dB(A) exposure.
However, these noise levels and resulting consequences such as irritation and delayed stress, tend to be ignored, simply because we become accustomed to these noises and pay no attention to this hidden risk for hearing loss.
Nevertheless, the damaging effects of continuous dental noise exist.
QuietOn Dental is a certified hearing protector device (EN352) combining both active and passive noise cancellation technologies. It efficiently prevents the development of hearing damage when used correctly.
This chart illustrates reduction levels of dental noise while using QuietOn active noise cancelling earplugs or custom-moulded earplugs. The data was measured up to 10.000Hz (=10kHz).
Dental tools produce noise in different frequencies. The highest noise levels (dB) may vary between different tool brands and therefore it is only possible to compare noise reduction levels.
QuietOn performs best for low and high frequency noises. Human speech is of mid-frequency level where the reduction level is moderate and it is therefore possible to communicate with patient and staff while wearing QuietOn earplugs.
Also inaudible noises can cause hearing damage over time. Ultrasonic scaler is an example of a dental tool generating noise mostly around 30kHz frequency which is beyond human hearing range (20Hz-20kHz). Further scientific studies are needed to explore the effects of these very high or very low frequency noises to human audition.
INIRC/IRPA are recommending the following limits for occupational hearing protection:
If you want to cherish your audition, prevent hearing damages, decrease noise-related stress and improve your, and also your patients’ wellbeing, QuietOn is your optimal long-time companion.
© 2022 QuietOn