Effectiveness of Gloves and Infection Control in Dentistry: Student and Provider Perspective

Abstract

Background: Dentistry is the most sensitive field of treatment. As there are many chances of infection, that can be spread-out in body through oral treatments. For this reason, it is always recommended to take precautions and other safety measures to keep human healthcare safety. Among these measures, use of gloves is most effective and necessary one. The primary aim is to assess the effectiveness of glove utilization in preventing infection transmission in dental settings, providing insights that can inform policies and educational programs. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design involved 200 participants, including dental healthcare providers and students. Data were collected through a self-administered survey, exploring perceptions and practices related to glove use in English and Arabic. Results: Significant findings include a non-significant association between different glove types in providing protection (χ² = 39.763, df = 30, p = 0.110). Perceived effectiveness did not consistently align with actual protective capabilities. A significant association was identified between the duration of gloves' adequate protection and the need for clear guidelines (χ² = 35.350, df = 18, p = 0.009). Double gloving demonstrated a substantial impact on reducing infection transmission (χ² = 57.263, df = 6, p < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant association was found between the use of products and glove integrity (χ² = 31.247, df = 6, p < 0.001). Conclusion: These findings underscore the nuanced nature of glove use in dental settings, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based guidelines. The impact of double gloving and the influence of certain products on glove integrity highlight areas for targeted interventions.