Uses for Disposable Latex Gloves

The tight, secure fit of disposable latex gloves offers users a more sensitive feel and touch. Of course, the most basic purpose hasn't changed since the 1800s -- protection for the hands. Here are some of the industries that make latex glove use a part of normal operating procedures.

Health Care

Healthcare professionals across the globe rely on disposable gloves. The gloves provide a barrier between skin and biohazardous material. This includes blood, urine, feces, and saliva. They serve the dual purpose of protecting patients from cross-contamination.

Contact with blood and body fluids is not exclusive to health care providers. Many other professions take advantage of the protective nature of latex. These include EMTs, firefighters, first responders, and police officers.

Dental

There are over 700 different types of bacteria inside the typical human mouth. This natural microflora is essential for a healthy oral cavity.

At any one time, there can be 20-100 billion bacteria inside a typical human mouth. (That's more than the entire Earth's population!) These bacteria are relatively harmless. Yet the possibility of infection still exists if a cut or opening in the skin is present.

Why do dentists and hygienists don latex gloves when examining pearly whites? We just gave you 50 billion reasons.