Dental Glove Re-use: Infection Control Guidelines & Patient Rights

The American Dental Association (ADA) has published guidelines on infection control in dental settings. These guidelines include recommendations on the use of gloves, including the following:

* Gloves should be worn for all patient care procedures that involve contact with blood, oral fluids, or other potentially infectious materials.

* Gloves should be changed between patients and whenever they become visibly soiled or damaged.

* Gloves should not be reused, even if they are turned inside out.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also has regulations on infection control in dental settings. These regulations include requirements for the use of gloves, including the following:

* Gloves must be provided to employees at no cost.

* Gloves must be worn whenever there is a risk of exposure to blood, saliva, or other potentially infectious materials.

* Gloves must be removed and discarded immediately after use.

You can provide your dentist with information from these sources to help him understand the risks associated with reusing gloves. You can also contact your state dental board to file a complaint about your dentist's questionable practice.