What is one method used to control cross-contamination in a dental practice?

Using barrier techniques such as gloves, masks, and protective eyewear is an essential method for controlling cross-contamination in a dental practice. These techniques form a protective barrier between the dental healthcare provider and the patient, as well as between patients.

Gloves protect the clinician's hands from blood, saliva, and other infectious materials, while masks prevent the inhalation of airborne droplets that might contain pathogens. Protective eyewear safeguards the eyes from splashes, further reducing the risk of infection transmission. This approach is fundamental in dental settings, where exposure to potentially infectious materials is common.

The other options, while they may carry some relevance to infection control, do not specifically address the critical interactions that occur during dental treatments. For instance, using only disposable instruments excludes the importance of protecting both the practitioner and the patient through personal protective equipment, which is vital in minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. Similarly, avoiding patient interaction or reducing the number of procedures does not effectively address the ongoing need for safety during necessary treatments where interaction is unavoidable.