Occupational hazards of dentistry. A review of literature from 1990.

A brief survey of the scientific and clinical literature (1990-present) on occupational hazards in dentistry is presented. The hazards identified are associated with chemical and biological agents. Yet, dentistry is a relatively safe profession. Other adverse health risks arise as new technologies and materials are developed. However, once identified and recognized as a risk, new guidelines, precautions and protocols are rapidly instituted to greatly reduce or even eliminate the occupational hazard.