THE EFFECTS OF OCCUPATIONAL NOISE ON HEARING OF DENTISTS UNITS OF FAMILY’S HEALTH OF JOAO PESSOA / PB

Abstract

Noise-induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is caused by exposure to noise, leading to progressive and irreversible hearing impairment, and the dentist is susceptible to this pathology. Objective: To verify the hearing profile and possible risk factors for hearing impairment of dentists working in Family Health Units (FHU) in Joao Pessoa, PB. Methods: We carried out interviews, audiological and instrumental noise assessments with 65 dentists, in order to characterize their hearing profile, using descriptive analysis and logistic regression. Results: It was observed that 43.07% of the dentists had decrease of at least one of the typical frequencies of NIHL. Otologic symptoms cited were: hearing deficit (55%) and tinnitus (50%). The most intense instruments were high speed turbine (61%) and compressor (55%). Conclusion: It was found that many dentists have hearing symptoms and are exposed to factors causing NIHL, requiring more knowledge for the prevention of this disease. Risk factors for NIHL are: age, working hours,noise level of the compressor, sensation of hearing impairment and tinnitus. These factors can be prevented or controlled through specific strategies. DESCRIPTORS: Hearing. Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced. Noise, Occupational. Noise Effects, Noise Measurement.