The primary function of any medical-grade glove is to serve as a physical barrier between the practitioner and potentially infectious materials. Whether in a dental office, a high-intensity trauma center, or a local laboratory, the choice of material—latex, nitrile, or vinyl—impacts the level of protection. Latex remains valued for its elasticity and "second-skin" feel, which is crucial for delicate micro-surgeries. However, the rise of synthetic alternatives has provided options that are equally durable but much safer for those with sensitivities to natural rubber proteins.

Glove integrity is measured by the Acceptable Quality Level, which dictates the maximum number of defects allowed in a production lot. For surgical applications, this level is significantly stricter than for examination purposes. Beyond material strength, the surface treatment of the glove is also important. Many modern variants are polymer-coated or chlorinated to make them easier to don without the use of cornstarch powder, which was…