Common equipment in the dental operatory generate cumulative noise at sufficient decibel levels that can damage hearing. Although noise exposure in the dental office is typically intermittent, dentists and other dental care providers have been shown to be at risk of hearing loss. This article provides dentist-generated insight to use when incorporating hearing protection devices during dental practice. Four hearing protection devices (HPDs) were provided to 15 dentists in randomized sequence for evaluation. Perceptions were gathered via questionnaires and analyzed to determine mean ratings and product preferences. Battery requirements of electronic HPDs were also examined. Qualitative assessments of the HPDs evaluated are presented, including dentist preferences and recommendations. There were statistically significant differences ( P ≤ 0.0031) among the HPDs in terms of ease of insertion, aesthetics, ability to hear while using a handpiece, and the openness of the ear. Battery life was not found to differ between the 2 electronic HPDs evaluated. Dentists most highly valued ease of hearing, ability to communicate, and comfort while wearing HPDs. The DI-15 High-Fidelity Electronic Earplugs HPD was ranked the highest, followed by Music PRO Electronic Earplugs. Battery longevity for these electronic HPDs was similar under all tested conditions studied. Knowledge Transfer Statement: Dentists should understand the potential ramifications of hearing loss and be aware that there are commercially available hearing protection products that preserve the ability to communicate with patients and coworkers.
Keywords: battery life; dentists; earplugs; hearing loss; hearing protection products; product evaluation.