When should staff change their gloves during a dental procedure?

Changing gloves during a dental procedure is crucial for maintaining infection control and preventing cross-contamination. Gloves should be changed whenever they become torn or contaminated. This practice ensures that any potential pathogens that may compromise the safety of the patient or the dental team are minimized. For example, if gloves become visibly dirty, or if they come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids, it is essential to replace them immediately to maintain a sterile environment.

While it is also important to change gloves after every patient to uphold hygiene standards, the emphasis in this context is on the need to do so whenever there is a breach in glove integrity or contamination. Gloves can be a barrier to infection but they are only effective if they remain intact and uncontaminated throughout the procedure. Regular glove changes not only protect patients but also the staff, ensuring that any exposure to potentially infectious materials is effectively managed.