EYE INFECTIONS IN DENTAL OPERATORS ARISING FROM INADEQUATE INFECTION CONTROL: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Background: Dental operators work within the splash and aerosol field of the patient's mouth, and the conjunctiva is an unprotected mucosal surface that can act as a portal of entry for microorganisms. Inconsistent use of eye protection may therefore expose operators to eye infection.
Objective: To review the evidence on eye infections in dental operators that result from inadequate infection control, with attention to routes of exposure, causative agents, contributing failures and preventive strategies.
Methods: A narrative review was undertaken using targeted searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, PubMed Central and Google Scholar for English-language literature and infection-control guidelines. Sources reporting ocular infection, exposure or eye-protection behaviour among dental personnel were synthesised thematically.
Results: The evidence comprises mainly surveys, case reports, laboratory studies and guidelines. Two surveys report ocular events in 47.8% and 52.6% of dental respondents, with conjunctivitis reported by 27% in one. Documented infections include eyelid infection and herpetic keratitis; bloodborne and respiratory viruses are recognised potential exposures. Recurrent failures are non-use of eyewear, eyewear lacking lateral protection, uncontrolled aerosol and splatter, hand-to-eye contact, inadequate precautions with active herpetic lesions, and training gaps. South African studies show persistent shortcomings in eye protection.
Conclusion: Confirmed operator eye infections are mostly reported as isolated cases, but the exposure pathways are well described and largely preventable. Standard precautions for every patient, appropriate eyewear or face shields, aerosol control, hand hygiene and education should be core components of practice-level infection control. Prospective surveillance in South Africa is needed.