What should a dental assistant do to minimize the risk of infection?

Wearing gloves and masks is a fundamental practice in infection control within the dental setting. The use of gloves helps to create a barrier between the dental assistant's hands and potential pathogens that may be present in blood, saliva, or other bodily fluids during procedures. This effectively minimizes the risk of cross-contamination between patients and the dental professional.

Masks are equally important as they protect both the dental assistant and the patient from aerosolized particles and respiratory droplets that can transmit infectious agents. Properly worn masks can significantly reduce the risk of inhaling or exhaling contaminants during dental procedures.

Other practices, like cleaning instruments and maintaining hand hygiene, also play crucial roles in infection control. However, the core defensive strategies against infection start with personal protective equipment, making wearing gloves and masks essential for minimizing risk effectively during dental procedures.