Dental Bibs, Barriers, and Drapes: What's the Difference?

Infection control starts with prevention — and dental bibs, barriers, and drapes are your first line of defence. While they may seem similar, each serves a unique purpose in maintaining hygiene and protecting patients and equipment in the operatory.

Dental Bibs: Patient Protection

Dental bibs are disposable sheets placed on a patient’s chest to protect their clothing and skin during treatment. They absorb moisture, catch debris, and prevent cross-contamination from sprays or splatter.

• Usually made from a waterproof polyethylene backing and absorbent paper
• Held in place using bib clips or holders
• Common in cleanings, fillings, and impressions

Surface Barriers: Equipment Protection

Surface barriers are plastic or adhesive coverings used on high-contact areas — like light handles, chair buttons, and touch screens — to avoid contamination during procedures.

• Quick to apply and remove between patients
• Minimise the need for disinfectants on sensitive surfaces
• Common barrier types: sleeves, films, and wraps

Dental Drapes: Procedural Protectioninfection control

Dental drapes are sterile or non-sterile sheets used to isolate the patient’s body or treatment area during more involved procedures like oral surgery or implant placement.

• Offers full-body or regional coverage
• Reduces exposure to pathogens and bodily fluids
• Available in fenestrated (windowed) styles for surgical access

When to Use Each Type

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between dental bibs, barriers, and drapes helps you make smarter purchasing decisions and maintain higher infection control standards. For any dental operatory, these dental protective sheets are essential to both patient safety and clinical efficiency.