I was diagnosed with an autoimmune medical issue several years ago. This medical condition compromises my immune system and makes me very susceptible to catching others illnesses. Perhaps this may seem silly to some, but to me, it's quite a valid question: in the dental profession, how frequently do you come into contact with patients that have contagious illnesses? Note: I do understand that any profession dealing with direct human to human interaction has the susceptibility to come into contact with contagious illnesses. Please advise. Thank you.
Compromised immune system as a dentist
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I would think you would be OK but it depends on how compromised you are, we don't know your medical situation
the best person to ask is your primary care provider and any specialists that manage your condition, not us
patients are coming to see you thankfully for their mouth so they shouldn't have a much higher incidence of infectious disease than what you would encounter at the grocery store, however people will come in stuffed up and want to cough right in your face
you'll be wearing a facemask and eye protection
the best person to ask is your primary care provider and any specialists that manage your condition, not us
patients are coming to see you thankfully for their mouth so they shouldn't have a much higher incidence of infectious disease than what you would encounter at the grocery store, however people will come in stuffed up and want to cough right in your face
you'll be wearing a facemask and eye protection
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Really scrupulous attention to hand hygiene and protective equipment can protect you somewhat. But you are going to be putting your hands inside the oral cavity, contacting blood and saliva... and gloves do break. Also, people may have respiratory and other illnesses without being particularly symptomatic, and your face is going to be very close to theirs. Masks help, but their effectiveness diminishes over time.
Sick people seek care. Caregivers risk exposure. If you know that you have an immune deficiency, you should absolutely consult with your physicians about whether this is a viable career option for you.
Sick people seek care. Caregivers risk exposure. If you know that you have an immune deficiency, you should absolutely consult with your physicians about whether this is a viable career option for you.
S
schmoob
Yeah, needle sticks were the first thing that came to mind.
