Stephen K. Harrel, DDS, is an adjunct professor in the Department of Periodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry. A diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, he is also a member of Dimensions of Dental Hygiene’s Editorial Advisory Board. Harrel can be reached at: skharrel@gmail.com.
As dental practices reopen for elective procedures, oral health professionals will need to be prepared to protect themselves and patients from dental aerosols.
With the growing risk of exposure to emerging and re-emerging diseases, the dental practice must maintain strict infection control protocols, including protection against airborne transmission.