Awareness, Attitude and Practice Regarding Disinfection and Handling of Extracted Teeth among the Students in a Dental College in India

OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study is to assess about the awareness, attitude, and practice regarding disinfection and handling of extracted teeth among the students of a dental college in Odisha, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The survey was done with a self-designed questionnaire distributed among the students of a dental college in Odisha, India. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Software (SPSS for Windows, Version 16.0., Released 2007, Chicago, SPSS Inc.) and the results obtained. RESULTS: Of the many methods available, the safest and practical methods to sterilize and disinfect the extracted human teeth could be autoclaving, submersion in 10% formalin and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite solutions. In addition, it was found that there is a significant need to educate the potential handlers of such extracted teeth about the latest statuary protocol and guidelines. CONCLUSION: Most of the participants in the study were aware of the established safety protocols regarding how to handle the pathogenic specimens and were putting in practice those standardized guidelines. But still another good number of handlers need to change their casual attitude while following the safety guidelines so as to protect themselves, others and the environment from the pathogenic clinical specimens.