Which healthcare worker is required to regularly wear a mask on the job?

The dental hygienist is required to regularly wear a mask on the job primarily due to the nature of the work environment and the procedures involved in oral healthcare. In dental settings, hygienists engage in tasks that can produce aerosols and droplets, such as scaling and cleaning teeth, which can potentially expose them and patients to infectious agents.

The use of masks helps to protect both the dental hygienist and the patients from the transmission of pathogens, particularly during procedures that can create a spray or mist. Masks are essential for maintaining aseptic conditions and reducing the risk of cross-contamination in the dental office.

While other healthcare workers, such as nurses, surgery technicians, and radiologic technologists, may also wear masks in specific situations (like during surgeries or when treating patients with respiratory illnesses), dental hygienists consistently wear masks as part of their routine practices due to the high-risk nature of dental procedures.