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It is not a new occurrence for dentists and their teams to wear gloves while administering treatment to a patient. These disposable, latex coverings make it easy to continue caring for an individual’s oral health without the potential of contracting a harmful bacteria or virus. But just how effective are they against COVID-19? Are they a necessary part of a dentist’s personal protective equipment (PPE)? Read on to find out why gloves are continuing to serve a vital role in your dental office’s COVID-19 safety plan.
When are Gloves Necessary?
Our hands perform an unlimited number of tasks each day. While your workspace may consist of a computer screen and keyboard, your dentist works within the oral cavity of each patient they see. If that individual as a cold or sore throat, the bacteria living in their mouth can be easily transmitted to the dental hygienist or another team member if proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is not worn.
Gloves make it possible for your dentist to stay protected against harmful bacteria, viruses, and other particles that are generated by aerosols. While a face mask, face shield, protective eyewear, and a disposable gown will protect against anything that sprays upward from the mouth, their hands are already exposed. Fortunately, there is a layer of latex, vinyl, or nitrile serving as a barrier that protects these extremities.
How Effective Are They?
It might seem as if gloves are impenetrable, but the reality is they are not. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has conducted numerous tests on the penetrability of different types of gloves. The studies claimed that depending on the glove material and type of procedure performed, many dental professionals develop a defect anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours. This is why it is highly recommended that dentists and team members change out their gloves should they become torn or seriously contaminated.
How Can Dentists Maximize Glove Usage?
To avoid continual tears or defects within the gloves, dentists are implementing additional recommendations for staff members, such as:
- Avoid wearing jewelry of any kind, especially those worn on the hands
- Keep fingernails short
- Change gloves the moment they become compromised
- Continue practicing safe and effective handwashing before and after wearing gloves
- Make sure hands are completely dry before putting on gloves (whether after handwashing or use of hand sanitizer)
Your dentist is taking every possible precaution to keep you and staff members safe from the spread of COVID-19. By keeping their hands better protected against harmful bacteria and viruses, they can continue to deliver excellent care to patients in need.
About the Author
Dr. Gary Rosenfeld completed his doctorate at Columbia University Dental School in 1984 before completing a General Practice Residency at Sea View Hospital on Staten Island. Honored by the New York State Dental Society for completing more than 1,000 hours of continuing education throughout his career, Dr. Rosenfeld is FirstFit certified and can provide dental procedures more efficiently and quickly. He and his team at Island Daily Dental Care are taking added precautions to keep everyone safe from the spread of COVID-19. If you are interested in learning more about the health and safety protocols being implemented in his practice, visit the website or call (631) 286-9000.