To Comparatively Evaluate Oxygen Saturation Level Among Dental Health Professionals Using 3 Different Types of Masks -N95, KN95 And Surgical Three-Layered Mask

Aim: To Comparatively Evaluate Oxygen Saturation Level Among Dental Health Professionals Using 3 Different Types of Masks -N95, KN95 And Surgical Three-Layered Mask. Settings and Design: Double blinded Randomized Clinical Trial Methods & Materials: Total 90 Dental health professionals were randomly assigned into three groups; Group A-N 95 mask (3M), Group B-KN 95 mask (3M) and Group C- Surgical three-layered mask (3 ply Surgical mask). The oxygen saturation level was measured for all the Groups before wearing the mask and after 1 hour wearing the mask using a pulse oximeter (MedTech). Results: The statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference in Pre-op (before wearing mask) &Post-op (1 hour after wearing mask) in the oxygen saturation level among all three experimental Groups. Although, as an individual group, Group B (KN95) showed statistically significant change in the oxygen saturation within the same group (Intra group) pre-op and post-op. Conclusion: This study confirms the fact that wearing any of these mask (N95, K95 or Surgical) continuously for 1 hour doesn't affect the oxygen saturation level. So it can be concluded that for any dental procedure taking up to 1 hour, it is safe to wear any of the above mentioned mask.