Impact of n95 filtering facepiece respirator and surgical masks on the blood oxygen saturation, heart rate and blood pressure of healthy dentists

Background: Corona virus disease 2019 is now a global crisis that needs thoughtful attention. This situation endangers the dental profession as it is mostly based on aerosol-generating procedures. To prevent spread of infection and cross-contamination, use of personal protective equipments including N95 masks or surgical masks is crucial. Along with the prevention of infection, the masks might pose physiological effects. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of N95 respirator and surgical masks on the blood oxygen saturation, heart rate and blood pressure of healthy dentists. Methodology: The present study is designed as a cross-sectional survey including healthy dentists. Blood oxygen saturation (SPO2), heart rate(HR) and blood pressure (BP)were recorded for N95 and surgical mask groups separately. Collected data was statistically analyzed based on student-t test. Results: The 1 hr SPO2and HR values for N95 respirator were statistically significant. No significant change in blood pressure observed for both N95 and surgical masks. Conclusion: The use of short duration N95 masks has impact on blood oxygen saturation and heart rate of healthy dentists. There was no impact on blood pressure in both N95 and surgical masks.