Hazards of gloves in dentistry. NLM AIDSLINE Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1991. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

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Hazards of gloves in dentistry.

Ill Dent J. 1990 Jul-Aug;59(4):274-8. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/91147116
Neiburger EJ


Abstract: Concerns about AIDS, hepatitis and infection control have increased the use of gloves in medical and dental practice. Though generally assumed to be protective, gloves pose many hazards to the practitioner and patient. This is especially significant in dentistry where a large assortment of materials and manipulative techniques are used as part of treatment. Gloves, with relatively large porosities, are poor barriers to viruses. They can promote bacterial growth, skin lesions, toxic and allergic reactions in patient and staff. Gloves are costly, time consuming to use, reduce sensitivity and dexterity. Gloves do not protect the wearer from penetrating injuries, the leading source of HIV and HBV infections in health care workers. The use of gloves is helpful only in those cases where their advantages outweigh liabilities. Governmental regulations, requiring universal glove-wear compliance, may not be in the best public or professional interest.
Keywords: Dental Care *Gloves, Surgical Human Risk Factors JOURNAL ARTICLEKWDdentalcareKWDgloves,surgicalhumanriskfactorsjournalarticle
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M9160678

Copyright © 1991 - National Library of Medicine. Reproduced under license with the National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD.

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