Common contact allergies in dental practice

Allergy to rubber gloves or a rubber dam commonly presents as a delayed hypersensitivity contact dermatitis beginning hours to days after exposure. This is usually associated with allergy to rubber components other than the latex protein (eg accelerants and vulcanising chemicals used in the manufacturing process). However, if contact dermatitis occurs in areas exposed to rubber materials following dental treatment, consider the possibility of latex allergy.

Allergy to latex is rare and usually presents as a localised contact urticaria or dermatitis starting minutes to hours after exposure. In dental practice, follow the advice in Management of urticaria and angioedema in dental practice for first-aid management of patients with urticaria. Occasionally allergy to latex can cause anaphylaxis (see Management of anaphylaxis in dental practice for first-aid management in dental practice). If a patient, dentist or staff member reports immediate hypersensitivity to latex, refer them for medical assessment. In patients with a confirmed latex allergy, perform dental treatment in a latex-free environment.

Allergy to acrylates usually presents as contact dermatitis. Acrylates and methacrylates (eg methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate) are plastic materials that are widely used in dentistry (eg dental bonding agents, materials in dentures). Acrylate contact allergy is more common in people who are frequently exposed, such as dental personnel, and may occur despite the use of protective gloves.

For the medical management of contact dermatitis, see Contact dermatitis.