Objective

This study aimed to determine the profile of occupational accidents among dental surgeons involving biological material, in the city of Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of descriptive and analytical nature, conducted in the city of Fortaleza, CE, in 2020, from a sample of 206 dental surgeons. Pearson's Chi-square and/or Likelihood Ratio tests at a 5% of significance level were used as well as absolute and percentage frequencies.

Results

A total of 120 (58.3%) professionals underwent accidents and 107 (89%) of these suffered from percutaneous injury. Considering dental surgeons who had accidents involving biological material, a significant association was identified between the occurrence of accidents with specialized professionals (p<0.001) and between age group and sex (p=0.008). The majority reported having been immunized against hepatitis B 193 (98%), and 101 (52%) of them sought serological confirmation tests. The demand for specialized care after an accident was low with a total of 45 (38%).

Conclusion

Dental surgeons in their exercise of clinical care are susceptible to under-going accidents. Preventive measures are important, such as the correct use of personal protective equipment.