Which personal protective equipment is essential for dental hygiene practice?

In dental hygiene practice, the essential personal protective equipment includes gloves, a mask, safety glasses, and a lab coat. Gloves are vital as they prevent the transmission of infectious agents from patients to the dental hygienist and vice versa. The mask serves to protect the hygienist from inhaling pathogens that may be aerosolized during dental procedures. Safety glasses are crucial for protecting the eyes from splashes and debris that can occur during various treatments. The lab coat acts as a barrier against contamination from bodily fluids and contributes to overall hygiene standards in the clinical environment.

Other options may include some appropriate items, but they do not comprehensively cover all the necessary protective elements required for safe dental practice. For example, while face shields can offer additional facial protection and gowns can provide extra coverage, the combination in option A covers the most critical items necessary for infection control and safety in a dental setting.