Operating gloves. The good and the bad

The use of gloves in all types of dentistry has been a major benefit to both patients and dentists. However, operating gloves are not without challenges. Tight ambidextrous gloves can produce significant and debilitating hand pain; latex allergies are a problem for many dental personnel and patients; and the disagreeable taste; odor and powder of some brands of gloves has frustrated both professionals and patients. In spite of the challenges that glove use poses, it offers many advantages--foremost among them the protection of patient and dentist alike from infection.