Did you know that your Dentist is at a high risk of noise-induced hearing loss? Each day, a Dentists spends 15-45 minutes at a time using dental equipment that can be as loud as 90-99 decibels! This level of sound intensity can be harmful to their inner ear system if exposed for a full day’s work, i.e., eight hours or more. The damage specifically happens to the outer hair cells in their inner ear and can cause permanent hearing loss, otherwise known as sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss can result in difficulty hearing conversations and particularly in background noise. Sensorineural hearing loss due to harmful levels of noise exposure may also occur with ringing in the ears, otherwise known as tinnitus. It is so important for Dentists to have their hearing tested by an Audiologist in order to establish a baseline of their hearing status and guide them to appropriate hearing protection. Sensorineural hearing loss is not reversible but it can be very preventable!

Dr. Srour is a huge fan of her Dentist and the entire team at West Long Branch Dental. West Long Branch Dental is always friendly and Dr. Isabel Bastos has such a caring and gentle touch! Because of the increased risk of noise-induced hearing loss that Dr. Bastos and her team face every day, Dr. Srour offered hearing screenings in their office on July 6th to promote healthy hearing and raise awareness on the importance of taking advantage of hearing protection.

First Dr. Srour looked in each team member’s ears to ensure their ear canals were clear and that there was no blockage of ear wax. Then, each team member was given a state-of-the-art tablet which performs automated and self-hearing assessments via touch screen. Each Dental team member had their hearing screening and were counselled on the findings. The process took less than three minutes per person! Afterwards, Dr. Srour made recommendations on easy hearing protection options which can be ordered on line, such as Axil Ear Plugs and Earasers Dental Earplugs. She also discussed the option of custom hearing protection through companies like Westone and Starkey. Now that a baseline of their hearing status has been established, Dr. Srour will monitor their hearing acuity in the years to come so that the team can benefit from early hearing intervention if needed.

Would you like to help your Dentist? Spread the word on healthy hearing and hearing protection! Are you a Dentist interested in offering your team a wonderful and fun opportunity to have their hearing checked? Contact Dr. Srour for help! When was the last time you had your hearing checked?