DENTAL SHEATH Meaning and
Definition
-
A dental sheath refers to a protective covering or sleeve that is used in dentistry to prevent contamination and maintain sterility during dental procedures. It is typically made of a thin, transparent material such as latex or similar synthetic polymers.
The primary purpose of a dental sheath is to prevent the dental handpiece and other instruments from coming into direct contact with the patient's oral cavity or other contaminated surfaces. This effectively creates a barrier that reduces the risk of cross-contamination between the patient and the dental instruments. By placing the dental handpiece or instrument into the sheath, the clinician ensures that they are shielded from any potential pathogens or debris that may be present in the patient's mouth.
In addition to providing infection control measures, dental sheaths also help to protect the dental equipment from wear and tear. They act as a protective layer that prevents the dental handpiece or instrument from getting scratched, damaged, or clogged with debris. This not only extends the lifespan of the dental equipment but also helps to maintain its optimal performance throughout various dental procedures.
Overall, dental sheaths are vital components in maintaining a clean and sterile dental environment. Their use ensures the safety of both the patient and the dental professional and helps to uphold the highest standards of infection control and hygiene in dental practice.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DENTAL SHEATH
- dental shecth
- dental shea4h
- dental sheadh
- dental sheaph
- dental sheavh
- dental sheauh
- dental sheatx
- dental sheatl
- dental sheati
- d ental sheath
- de ntal sheath
- den tal sheath
- dent al sheath
- denta l sheath
- dental s heath
- dental sh eath
- dental she ath
- dental shea th
- dental sheat h
Etymology of DENTAL SHEATH
The word "dental sheath" has a clear etymology related to its meaning. "Dental" stems from the Latin word "dēns, dentis", which means "tooth". It is also related to the Greek word "odont-" with the same meaning.
"Sheath" comes from the Old English word "sceath", which translates to "a covering or case". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "skæthaz", meaning "a covering or protection".
Therefore, the etymology of "dental sheath" combines "dental" meaning tooth and "sheath" meaning a protective covering, referring to the protective covering or casing used in dental procedures.
