Various substances have the potential for interaction with polyvinyl siloxane impression material during the setting reaction. Polymerization inhibition reports were not widespread until expanded infection control guidelines were implemented as standard of care in dentistry. Latex gloves and rubber dam are two prominent infection control barriers within the scope of these guidelines. [4],[5],[6] Contraindication for making impression with rubber dam in place was first noted in the private practice by Noonan et al.[7] When addition silicone impression material was used with a rubber dam in place, it was seen that the surface of the impression did not set wherever it touched the rubber dam.
In this study we found that latex gloves - washed and unwashed - affected the setting time of polyvinyl siloxane impression materials. The polymerization of Reprosil™ and Express™ polyvinyl impression materials were completely inhibited. However, Detaseal™ impression material showed only a delay in the setting time with Dialstern™, Janex™, and Safe Touch™ latex gloves; this delay was not statistically significant as compared to hand mix. On the other hand, with Serjun™ and Disposable latex gloves there was significant increase in the setting time (P