The Best Gloves for Dentists: A Comprehensive Review

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Dentists and dental professionals work in an environment that puts them at a high risk of contamination and infections, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis B virus, and herpes simplex virus (HSV), among others. As such, they wear gloves as personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep themselves and their patients safe.

Today's specialized medical gloves provide comfort and peace of mind during dental procedures, and choosing the most suitable disposable medical gloves can significantly improve the quality of care you provide in your practice. But with so many alternatives in the market, finding the best dental gloves can be daunting.

This article will provide an in-depth review of the top dentistry gloves, considering factors such as comfort, fit, durability, and barrier protection, to help dentists decide which gloves are best for their practice.

Types of Gloves for Dental Hygienists

Exam gloves protect against the spread of infectious agents and provide a protective barrier between the dental professional and the patient's bodily fluids. Various types of gloves are available for dentists, each with advantages and disadvantages. Let's explore these different kinds of exam gloves:

Latex Gloves

Latex gloves have been the standard in dental practices for a long time. They are popular because they provide high tactile sensitivity, allowing dental professionals to have a better feel of what they touch and hold. Latex gloves are also inexpensive and readily available. However, some individuals may be allergic to latex, which can cause skin irritation or more severe allergic reactions.

Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are becoming increasingly popular in dental practices due to their durability and resistance to punctures and tears. Nitrile gloves offer resistance to many potentially corrosive chemicals used in dental settings, such as glutaraldehyde with phenol and carbamide peroxide, among others. They are also available in various sizes, making them suitable for all hand sizes.

However, it should be noted that like latex gloves, the antigens in the gloves' synthetic material may cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, although this is a rare possibility.

Vinyl Gloves

Vinyl gloves are a worthwhile alternative to latex and nitrile gloves. They are comfortable to wear, making them a popular choice for short procedures. However, they are less durable than latex and nitrile gloves, and can be more prone to tearing. They are also unsuitable for many chemicals commonly used in dental practices.

Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Dental Gloves

Below are the top dental gloves with unique features:

1. WellBefore Endeavor Nitrile Examination Gloves

WellBefore Endeavor Nitrile Examination Gloves are commonly used in dental practices for examining patients and handling instruments and other materials.

They're a popular choice in dental exam settings because these nitrile gloves offer peak protection and high durability, as they're made of synthetic rubber resistant to punctures, tears, and chemicals. Additionally, they are latex-free, which is vital for patients and staff members with latex allergies.

WellBefore has high-quality dental exam gloves that meet industry strength, comfort, and agility standards. These nitrile powder-free exam gloves are designed with a textured surface that provides a secure grip, even when hands are wet. They are available in a range of sizes to ensure a proper fit for all dental professionals.

Features

• Nitrile material
• Latex-free
• Powder-free
• Textured surface
• Beaded cuff
• Available in different thicknesses ranging from 4 mils to 5 mils
• Available in black and blue colors
• Available in different sizes

2. WellBefore Endeavor Vinyl Examination Gloves

WellBefore Endeavor Vinyl Examination Gloves are disposable gloves commonly used in the dental industry to protect the hands of dental professionals and patients during dental procedures.

These powder-free dental exam gloves are made of vinyl material, a synthetic material resistant to tearing and puncturing. Vinyl gloves are also less expensive than other materials, such as latex and nitrile. However, they may provide less sensitivity than the other materials.

The term "examination gloves" refers to the fact that these gloves are suitable for non-surgical tasks, such as dental exams or cleanings. They are not intended for use during surgical procedures.

The WellBefore Endeavor Vinyl Examination Gloves are a popular choice among dental professionals because they offer good protection and comfort at an affordable price point.

Features

• Non-sterile
• Latex-free
• Protein-free
• Powder-free
• High elasticity
• Vinyl material
• Available in different sizes
• Smooth surface finish

3. McKesson Vinyl Exam Glove

McKesson Vinyl Exam Glove is another great option for those in the dental practice. This dental glove option is made of vinyl material, a synthetic polymer known for its durability and resistance to punctures and tears.

These non-sterile gloves are intended for examination and other non-sterile procedures where the risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids is low or does not go on for extended periods. Dental professionals commonly use these disposable gloves during routine procedures, such as tooth extractions.

These medical-grade dental gloves are designed to provide an accurate fit and excellent tactile sensitivity, allowing the wearer to perform tasks with precision and ease. They are also latex-free and powder-free, which makes them an ideal choice for individuals allergic to latex.

The McKesson Vinyl Exam Glove is a reliable and affordable option for dentists looking for high-quality gloves that offer comfort during non-sterile procedures.

Features

• Synthetic polymer glove
• Superior fit that improves comfort, sensitivity, and dexterity
• Resistance to punctures and tears
• Latex-free, suitable for individuals allergic to latex

4. McKesson Pink Nitrile Nitrile Exam Glove

The McKesson Pink Nitrile Exam Glove is designed for dentists and other healthcare professionals. These dental exam gloves are made from nitrile and offer excellent resistance to chemicals, punctures, and tears, making them ideal for dentistry.

The pink color of these dental gloves is not just for aesthetics; the bright color serves as a visual cue to help identify any tears or punctures that may occur during use, and contaminants are more easily spotted. They can be worn under or over a dark-colored glove to create contrast in case of damage (double gloving). These gloves are also ideal for use if you should require color-coding in your practice.

The disposable medical gloves are available in various sizes to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for every professional in dental offices. Additionally, these gloves are powder-free, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions in both the wearer and the patient.

These nitrile powder-free exam gloves are a reliable and practical choice for dentists and other healthcare professionals who require high protection and comfort during their procedures.

Features

• Disposable nitrile material
• Designed for healthcare professionals and minor procedures
• Pink color helps to identify tears or punctures
• Available in a range of sizes
• Powder-free to reduce the risk of allergic reactions
• Resistant to chemicals, punctures, and tears

5. Touch of Life Nitrile Exam Glove

The Touch of Life Nitrile Exam Glove is a disposable glove commonly used in dental offices for patient care and dental procedures. This glove is made of nitrile material, and is highly durable and puncture-resistant.

The Touch of Life Nitrile Exam Glove features a textured surface for a better grip, even when wet. This helps prevent slips and drops, which can cause injury to both the patient and the dental professional.

Nitrile powder-free gloves are a safe and effective alternative for those who are allergic to or cannot tolerate latex or gloves with powder. Features

• Made of nitrile
• Powder-free
• Latex-free (suitable for those with latex allergies)
• Textured gloves for a better grip
• Ambidextrous design for versatile use
• Available in different sizes (S, M, L, XL)

Considerations When Selecting the Best Gloves for Dentistry

When selecting gloves for dental practitioners, there are several important factors to consider:

• Material: Gloves made of latex, nitrile, or vinyl are the most commonly used gloves in dental practices. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Latex gloves are flexible and offer excellent tactile sensitivity, but some people may have allergies to latex. Nitrile exam gloves are puncture-resistant but may be less flexible than latex gloves. Vinyl exam gloves, on the other hand, are inexpensive but less durable and comfortable than latex or nitrile gloves.
• Size: Gloves that fit well are essential for proper hand hygiene and infection control. Small gloves can cause hand fatigue and may tear or break easily. Overly large gloves can slip off or impede finger dexterity.
• Thickness: The thickness of exam gloves can affect their durability and sensitivity. Thicker gloves offer more protection against punctures and tears but may reduce the sensitivity of the fingers. Thinner gloves offer better tactile sensitivity but may be more prone to tearing.
• Powdered vs. non-powdered: Powdered gloves are coated with a fine powder to make them easier to put on and remove. However, the powder can cause skin irritation and increase the risk of infections. Non-powdered gloves are a better option for those with sensitive skin or latex allergies, and they decrease risks of infection, however, they may be more difficult to put on.
• Color: Glove color is an essential consideration for dentists, especially regarding visibility. Light-colored gloves make it easier to spot tears, punctures, or contaminants. Double gloving (wearing two differently colored gloves) is a common practice in medical settings.
• Cost: The cost of exam gloves can vary depending on the material, thickness, and other factors. On average, latex gloves may cost about $15–$70 or more per bundle while nitrile gloves may start at $5–$6 upwards. Vinyl gloves are much cheaper and may cost as low as $3 per bundle up to $50 or more. These prices vary based on the manufacturer, quality index, or by purchase volume.
• Quality: While price is essential, it should not be the only factor when selecting gloves. The quality and effectiveness of the gloves are also crucial factors to consider.
• Chemicals in use: Dental procedures requiring the use of hazardous substances and chemicals like glutaraldehyde will require tough, tear-resistant gloves.

Order Quality Gloves at WellBefore

WellBefore offers a wide selection of quality dental gloves, including latex, nitrile, and vinyl options so that you can find a superior fit for your needs.

Our medical-grade dental gloves are designed with safety and comfort in mind, so you can focus on what matters most—providing excellent dental care without worry. We offer high-quality medical and dental supplies for any medical and dental office, available at competitive prices to get the best value for your money.

At WellBefore, you can find gloves, masks, and other medical and dental equipment. Browse through our gloves collection today or call us at +1-214-416-9009 to place your order.