Simplified approach to use of electrical pulp tester.

The routine use of gloves as a barrier technique is recommended by the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control. The use of the electrical pulp tester necessitates that the dentist contact the patient's skin or mucosa to complete the circuit. A technique is presented that simplifies the operation of the electrical pulp tester by the dentist wearing gloves. Advantages of this method include a sound barrier technique, an enhanced psychological benefit to the dentist, and an abatement in discomfort for the patient.