Protective gloves

The worldwide emergence of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has led to the wide use and acceptance of gloves as a measure of protection against infection in dental practice. Problems caused by the frequent use of gloves are already known from experiences in the surgical sector and have taken on a new urgency: these include impermeability, the difficulties of disinfection, and adverse skin reactions. In addition, there are specific dental questions such as the interference of gloves with electrical sensitivity tests and also with the taking of impressions. This paper discusses topical aspects of glove use and possible solutions to current problems.