What could cause deterioration of gloves during dental procedures?

The deterioration of gloves during dental procedures can significantly impact both the safety of the dental professional and the patient. Using oil-based lotions and disinfecting agents is correct because these substances can compromise the integrity of glove materials. Oil can weaken the latex or vinyl components of gloves, making them more prone to tearing or cracking. Furthermore, certain disinfectants can contain chemicals that create a reaction with the latex, leading to degradation of the glove's protective barrier.

Other factors, while they may contribute to wear and tear, do not have the same level of impact on glove integrity as oil-based substances do. For instance, exposure to water alone typically does not cause gloves to deteriorate, as many glove types are designed to be waterproof. Prolonged wear without changing can lead to increased microbial load on the glove surface, but this does not necessarily weaken the glove material itself. Similarly, washing gloves with soap may remove contaminants but is not recommended, as it can also degrade the gloves over time and is not effective in maintaining a sterile surface. Therefore, the use of oil-based products is a primary concern when it comes to glove deterioration during procedures.