Gloves have become an essential instrument of protection in dental clinics against any type of contamination. They reduce the risk of transmitting microorganisms to patients and therefore prevent the transmission of infections. They are necessary when cleaning or disinfecting dental instruments, surfaces or when treating patients. Therefore, the most commonly used in the dental sector are disposable gloves, which are ideal in case of contact with blood or body fluids such as saliva.
These can be powdered or powder-free. The powdered gloves are characterised by being easy to put on. Powder free gloves undergo an intensive washing process and have a synthetic polymer coating. Thus, they have similar characteristics to powdered gloves.
There are different types of sanitary gloves (latex, vinyl, nitrile...) with different characteristics and, sometimes, it is difficult not only to choose the type of glove but also which size best suits your hands. For this reason, today we bring you a post where we tell you in detail the characteristics of each type of glove, their differences and we reveal some tips to keep in mind so you don't make a mistake in your choice. Let's get started!
Type of gloves according to their material and use in the dental practice
- Latex gloves: disposable gloves that offer good resistance and are effective against infectious agents. They are designed with natural rubber, a very elastic and adaptable material, making them adjustable and comfortable gloves. They can be sterile or non-sterile, powdered or powder-free.
- Vinyl gloves: for short-term treatments, without risk of exposure to external factors. They are made from synthetic polyvinyl chloride resins and are latex and chemical accelerator free gloves. They offer good barrier protection and are resistant to many contaminants. They are non-sterile and can be powdered or powder-free.
- Nitrile gloves: highly resistant to tears, punctures and chemicals. They are made of synthetic polymers (100% synthetic nitrile) and their microrough surface provides high comfort and sense of touch. They are ideal for tasks with high biological or chemical risk. They can be sterile or non-sterile, powdered or powder-free.
- Polyisoprene gloves: they serve as a second skin and help to perform correctly the functions inside the clinic.
They can also be classified into sterile and non-sterile. The former are suitable for all types of dental surgery to protect both the patient and the dentist from possible chemical or biological hazards. They can be surgical gloves, nitrile gloves or powder-free latex gloves.
Tips for choosing your gloves in the dental clinic
Once you know the types of gloves most commonly used in dentistry, it's time to find out what the differences are between them and other factors to take into account in order to make the right choice. Read on because we'll tell you all about it below!
Differences between the main types of gloves: latex, vinyl and nitrile
As we have already mentioned, there are many different types of disposable gloves: nitrile, latex, vinyl, polyethylene, PVC... The most commonly used in dentistry are latex, vinyl or nitrile. It is therefore necessary to know the significant differences between the three types to make sure that you make the right choice.
Latex is the most widely known and used material for gloves. It offers the
The vinyl gloves offer greater permeability, less resistance and less adaptability to the hand than their competitors. They are cheaper than nitrile, but also less durable than latex and nitrile. In addition, vinyl does not fit the hand as well, which prevents unlimited dexterity of the professional and a greater likelihood of the glove snagging or tearing.
Finally, nitrile gloves are characterised by their extensive resistance to biological agents and chemical products. In fact, it is three times more puncture resistant than latex. The only thing is that, once the glove is punctured, it tears completely. This may seem like a drawback to you, however, it serves as a pointer to replace them so that your hands remain protected.
How to choose the right glove size in dentistry
One of the most important factors when choosing gloves is selecting the right size so that the glove fits your hand perfectly and you can work safely and comfortably. But why is it so important to get the right size? Because it can affect your work performance. A smaller size can make you feel fatigued and break more easily. On the other hand, a larger glove can cause a loss of feel and sensitivity.
Today there is a wide range of glove sizes rangingfrom XS to XXL. One of the most common ways to find out your size is to measure the contour of your hand or the length of your hand. To do this, you have to pass a flexible tape measure around the widest point of your hand (from the knuckles) and, depending on the measurement, you can see in the following table what your ideal size is.
Source: Oregon Glove Company
EXTRA TIP: if you are between two sizes, it is recommended to always choose the smaller one.
The problem of allergies and solutions
The main problem with gloves is the allergies they can cause, especially latex gloves. These are made of a natural material, rubber, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. On the other hand, powdered gloves, made of corn starch, can also cause irritation or allergies.
What do I do if I am allergic to latex and/or powdered gloves?
The vinyl gloves are your best option. As they are designed without latex or chemical accelerators, they are ideal for avoiding allergy problems. If you are allergic to powdered gloves, select powder-free gloves to avoid redness or rashes.
Where to dispose of gloves?
The period of use of the gloves is limited to a few hours. After their optimal time of use, they lose their effectiveness and need to be disposed of as waste. Nowadays, due to the huge amount of gloves used every day, it is more important than ever to dispose of them in the correct container, i.e. the waste bin or residue bin. This is where all waste that is not collected separately is deposited.
Source: 2021 Recycle Away, LLC
TOP 3 Top Rated Gloves at Dentaltix
If you still don't know which one to choose, we bring you a selection of the 3 best rated gloves by our customers. Don't miss them!
Latex gloves with powder (100 pcs)
Latex gloves indicated to protect the patient and the user against chemical (microorganisms) and biological risks. Preferred use in the examination and exploration of patients, for hygienic, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, in the extraction of biological and analytical samples, in the cleaning and handling of instruments and contaminated or non-contaminated material.
Characteristics of latex gloves:
- Gloves made of latex.
- They have a fine textured outer surface.
- Highly elastic, fits perfectly in the hand and does not press.
- It has a long cuff with flange.
- Produces a great feel of comfort.
- They are anti-fatigue.
- Maximum level of dexterity: 5
- Ambidextrous.
- Suitable for contact with alcoholic (up to 10o) and fatty foods.
- Available in the following sizes: XS, S, M, L and XL.
- Content: 100 pcs.
Dust Free Latex Gloves (100 pcs)
These latex gloves are manufactured according to EN 455-2 and ASTM D3578-95 standards, certified by SGS and classified as Health Product Class I according to European Directive 93/42 EEC, so they are especially suitable for use in dental clinics. Powder-free latex gloves are very suitable for people with sensitive skin who do not tolerate powdered gloves.
Features of Powder-Free Latex Gloves:
- Non-sterile powder-free gloves.
- They have good resistance.
- Made of 100% natural latex of the highest quality.
- Their edges are rounded.
- Adherent and resistant.
- Ambidextrous.
- Single-use.
- Available in the following sizes: S, M and L.
- Content: 1 box with 100 pcs.
Powder Free Nitrile Gloves (100 pcs)
Powder-free 100% synthetic nitrile examination gloves. They are single use and ambidextrous. They are characterised by a high resistance to punctures, tears or chemicals.
Features of Nitrile Gloves:
- Gloves made of 100% synthetic nitrile, powder free.
- Ambidextrous gloves.
- They are highly resistant to tears, punctures and chemicals.
- They provide high comfort and sense of touch.
- One-time use only.
- Colour depending on availability of stock.
- Available in the following sizes: XS, S, M, L and XL.
- Pack of 100 units.
Ulma Sterile Powder-Free Latex Surgical Gloves
100% synthetic powder-free nitrile examination gloves. They are single use and ambidextrous. They are characterized by having a high resistance against punctures, breaks or chemical products.
Features of Ulma Sterile Gloves:
- Sterile powder-free gloves.
- Precise tactile sensitivity.
- Made of latex.
- Different sizes available.
- Resistant to punctures and tears.
- Stable and comfortable.
- Microtextured surface to improve grip
- Each box contains 50 units.
Finally, it is important to note that in case of contact with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients, the use of non-sterile disposable patient examination gloves is recommended. In particular, vinyl gloves with EN455 protection and nitrile gloves EN455 OR EN374.5 are prepared for prevention against Coronavirus.
As we have seen, the choice of the right gloves should be made according to the applications for which the glove is to be used, the possibility of allergies caused by some types and the size that best suits your hand. In this way, you will not only avoid breakages, but you will also work more comfortably and safely.
This is the end of today's post. If you still have any questions about gloves, don't hesitate to write to us. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have! And to keep up to date with the latest in the dental sector, follow us on our social networks.
See you next time!