Category Spotlight: CRITERION Earloop Masks

It’s a safe bet to say that anyone who works in a dental office has worn hundreds of masks over the years. It probably wouldn’t even be a stretch to say that number might even approach the 4-digit mark. It’s another safe bet to say that not all masks are the same, and it can be time-consuming to find a mask that exhibits qualities that clinicians need. Especially with the proliferation of counterfeit products that now flood the market, it’s become critical for both patients and clinicians to have masks that meet both safety and quality standards. CRITERION has that covered.

Henry Schein recently expanded its CRITERION mask line, adding Level 1 and 3 masks in a new black color. The black masks join an expansive line of styles and an array of colors that includes blue, lavender, pink, yellow, white, and teal.

“In our office, the new black color goes better with the overall cosmetics of the office,” said Jessica Allbritten, CRDH, BASDH, in Dunedin, FL. “The color is more professional, less medical-looking, and more toned down for nervous patients. It also creates a conversation, so the unusual black color can take patients’ minds off their upcoming procedures, which is helpful.”

CRITERION masks are all ASTM-rated and disposable. The 3-ply masks feature comfortable earloops and a flexible nosepiece, along with a pleated design for added comfort and enhanced breathability. In addition, both the soft, nonirritating inner and outer layers are not made with natural rubber latex, and the material is designed to be gentle on the skin.

Newly Designed Packaging

Addressing today’s hectic dental offices, CRITERION masks feature a newly designed outer box that can simplify the reordering process and make it faster and easier to locate the correct mask on the shelf. The new CRITERION design includes color-coded packaging that clearly and prominently displays color, size, reorder numbers, and more.

In addition to its popular line of masks, the CRITERION brand also includes a head-to-toe line of additional personal protective equipment, including eyewear, garments, shoe covers, bouffant caps, and gloves.