Abstract
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant concern for dental hygienists due to prolonged exposure to loud dental equipment, with potential long-term impacts on
auditory health. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a hearing conservation
workshop in the Greater Sacramento Area to improve dental hygienists’ awareness,
attitudes, and behaviors regarding hearing protection devices (HPDs). A mixed-methods
approach was used, with pre- and post-workshop surveys (BAHPHL questionnaire)
assessing participants’ knowledge and intentions related to hearing loss and HPD use.
Results indicated that the workshop successfully increased participants’ awareness of the
risks of NIHL, with a notable shift toward greater agreement that their hearing was
affected by workplace noise and that HPDs were effective in preventing hearing loss.
Participants also reported improved comfort with HPDs and a stronger intention to use
them regularly. Additionally, misconceptions about hearing loss, such as the idea that
ears could “toughen up” to noise, were dispelled.
In conclusion, the workshop effectively enhanced dental hygienists’
understanding and practices regarding hearing protection, underscoring the need for
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ongoing education and integration of hearing conservation programs into dental hygiene
curricula to reduce the risk of NIHL and promote long-term hearing health.
KEYWORDS: DENTAL HYGIENISTS, HEARING PROTECTION, HEARING
CONSERVATION, NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS, NIHL