CAPR's are used in hospitals settings when the risk of airborne pathogen transmission is high and where diseases such as tuberculosis, Ebola, influenza and others may be present. CAPR's eliminate the need to wear any other type of mask such as the N95. CAPR's have a face shield that fits snuggly under the chin by an elastomeric seal, resembling saran wrap, forming a extremely effective aerosol barricade between the patient and staff. CAPR's are a great choice over N95 masks as they do not need to be professionally fit tested, more comfortable for staff and allows our patients to see our smiling faces!
CAPR's are certified by NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Hazard) as well as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). The APR (Assigned Protection Factor) for a CAPR is 25.
N95 masks are another good choice as we sometimes use them for non-aerosol procedures. N95 masks have a APR of 10. All Dental-Doctors of Lynchburg employees (except front desk staff) have been fit tested and passed by an authorized fire and safety equipment company.
Regular paper surgical masks are used for normal operating procedures outside of the treatment rooms AT ALL TIMES in our office!