Determinants of Dental Infection Control Costs: A Survey‐Based Multi‐Centre Analysis

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated whether variations in costs related to dental infection control (DIC) practices exist depending on the characteristics of dental institutions. METHODS: Data were collected via surveys administered to 20 dental institutions (357 dental staff members) between April and May 2020. The costs of DIC were calculated by considering the consumables, time, and labour costs to determine the cost of treating one patient per clinical procedure. Independent-sample t-tests and multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the factors influencing DIC costs. These factors included the location and type of dental institution, number of dentists and dental hygienists, healthcare accreditation status, and the presence of a DIC coordinator. RESULTS: DIC costs were compared in accordance with the standard protocols provided by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The results revealed that DIC expenses incurred by dental institutions were lower than those incurred under standard CDC protocol. The costs related to DIC showed a significant increase with the presence of a DIC coordinator, number of dentists, number of staff per dentist, and healthcare accreditation for dental institutions. Among these factors, the presence of a DIC coordinator had the most significant impact on DIC costs. CONCLUSION: For optimal DIC in dental settings, enhancing education and awareness among dental professionals, centred on the role of DIC coordinators, is of paramount importance. Furthermore, a policy framework is essential to ensure that every dental institution is equipped with designated personnel responsible for DIC.