Silicone molding compounds and latex gloves. The effect of latex gloves on addition and condensation silicones

: Inhibited setting of addition silicones has been observed using latex gloves in the dental office. Therefore four addition silicones as well as four condensation silicones were mixed with seven latex gloves with different properties (sterility, powder, accelerator, inner layer). The masses were mixed with bare hands as a control and--additionally--with powdered hands. Condensation silicones stayed unaffected when put together in exact amounts, while some addition silicones showed nearly complete inhibition. Mixing the condensation silicones under the conditions of daily practice--one spoon of body plus a distinct amount of catalyst-resulted in hardness differences compared to using the exact dose. Nevertheless the resulting impressions were of satisfying quality. The powder-component (Bio-sorb, Surgikos) leads to an accelerated setting. The general dental practitioner/dental hygienist have to consider these aspects while choosing gloves and silicone putties for taking impressions.