There's a brewing anxiety as at least 11,000 dental patients in New South Wales are encouraged to be screened for infections such as HIV and hepatitis A to C.
The call is in light of the latest discoveries of an audit among dental clinics in the region after one complaint over their hygiene and safety standards. The response had resulted to at least 2 suspended licenses and more than 10 practitioners who are being investigated. Some of the discovered breaches include poor storage and sterilization of the equipment used, as well as bad cleaning practices.
Currently, according to the health authorities, there's no reported case of transmission or infection. The chances of transmission are low. However, the risk may go up for dental patients who went through more complex and invasive dental procedures such as surgery. By then, the viruses that cause these infections can invade the gums. These procedures can be performed as far back as 10 years ago.
By having themselves tested, they will be able to receive the necessary treatments promptly, if they turn out be positive.
Speaking to Sydney Daily Telegraph, Robert Starkenburg, one of the dentists who now has a suspended license, reveals his mistake of being "behind the times." He also compared his clinic to others, saying that he didn't have the same spic-and-span facility as the newcomers. However, that has all changed ever since the investigations and audit began. He also accused the government the region's health department of submitting him to a "kangaroo court."
Meanwhile, the Dental Council of New South Wales reiterates its commitment to the public by continuing to monitor dental clinics, making sure that practitioners adhere to the strict guidelines and practices that promote safety and health to patients. The council has been given the authority to suspend licenses as well as to place certain conditions if necessary.