Medical Devices for the dental practice: protective face masks

Using a disposable face mask in the dental practice is paramount in order to prevent the inhalation of chemical substances used during operations and to stop infectious viruses or bacteria from attacking healthcare operators.

So, using a protective face mask is vitally important because it safeguards the health of the dentist and the healthcare operators. This is why dental-laboratory safety regulations make it compulsory to use one even during the first exploratory checks on the oral cavity.

In the very unlikely event of a dentist not wearing a protective face mask, the patient has the right to insist on one being used whilst the healthcare operators are duty-bound to ensure that one is worn.

In addition to the health side of things, other important advantages of wearing colourful face masks should not be underestimated. Colours make the surrounds seem more welcoming and can help patients to feel more at ease – this is especially true of children. Colourful face masks put a fun spin on the relationship between dental staff and children, which will take the sting out of a visit to the dentist, making it easier for patients to return.

As far as protection is concerned, it is crucial that the face mask donned in the dental practice is of the best possible quality – what this means is it must be highly protective and be endowed with a good filter. There are a huge number of face masks available on the market and they are made from different materials. All of them cover the respiratory orifices, but they do not all offer the same protection standards. The quality of the materials used and the inclusion of a series of functional features boost their capacity for protection.

Some face masks are made from cotton, others from NWF (non-woven fabric which is well-known nowadays) and still others from polypropylene. From a solely protective point of view, each single face mask must comply with certain standards making them suitable for use.

Pure-cotton face masks

Certainly offer the benefit of being completely non-allergenic; therefore, they are more suited to dentists with skin-sensitivity problems. The extent of protection also varies according to the thickness of the face mask and any absorbent inserts it might have.

Polypropylene face masks

Have good heat-resistance properties and a good absorbency rate, but, if used over a long period of time, they can trigger a reaction in anyone who is prone to allergies.

NWF face masks

Are amongst the most commonly used. The main reason for this is not only due to the cheaper cost. NWF is a highly versatile material that can be adapted to a variety of uses and can also be combined with other materials. It also boasts excellent breathability and is extremely impervious to fluids.

Euronda developed its disposable Monoart® protective face masks, by combing an outer layer of water-repellent NWF interspersed with bacterial and particulate filters and an inner lining of hydrophilic NWF to wick away sweat and moisture.

Monoart® disposable face masks are class I medical devices specially designed to deliver outstanding comfort and complete protection against sprays, germs and splashes. Available in a 3- and 4-layer version according to your requirements. Colourful, comfortable and safe, they are available in a floral-patterned version as well.