Frequently asked questions about the dental public health investigation

              Frequently Asked Questions About the Dental Public Health Investigation
How could I have been exposed to Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in a dentist's office?
When dentists and other healthcare professionals do not follow proper infection control procedures, patients can be at risk to acquire these diseases. Proper infection control techniques include thorough disinfection and sterilization of instruments, proper disposal of sharp objects, use of single dose medication vials or proper handling and administering of multi-dose vial medications when used in the facility, and never reusing items such as needles and syringes between patients.
Does this happen very often in other dentist's offices?
No, most dentists practice proper infection control procedures.
Has HBV, HCV, or HIV transmission ever occurred before in a dental setting?
Very rarely, HIV and HBV have been known to be transmitted in the dental setting. HCV transmission has not been documented in the dental setting.
What do dentists do to protect their patients from being exposed to these bloodborne viruses?
Dentists, like other healthcare professionals, are trained to utilize what is known as Standard/Universal Precautions to protect themselves and their patients. Standard/Universal Precautions require that the blood and other body fluids of all patients be handled as if they contain viruses or other micro-organisms in the blood that can cause human disease. Appropriate use of hand washing, protective barriers such as gloves, injection safety including proper medication preparation and administration, and care in the use and disposal of needles and other sharp instruments are also important components of observing Standard/Universal Precautions.
How will I be notified of today's test results? How long will it take to get results?
Most persons will be notified of their test results within 1 to 2 weeks. If you have negative test results and give the health department permission to mail negative test results to your home, you will be notified in this manner. Anyone who has a positive test result will be personally notified by a professional from the health department to provide more information about the test results and provide recommendations for follow up and care.