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8/27/2021

Maxi-Gard Air Earloop Procedure Masks

Featuring an innovative, contoured design that enhances air flow space, the Maxi-Gard Air mask provides extra breathing room for the clinician. With latex-free material and comfortable earloops, the mask offers complete coverage and fit for comfortable extended wear. The ASTM Level 1 mask is available in 3 colors - blue, white, and lavender. 
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Dental professionals depend on personal protective equipment to ensure the safety of themselves, their staff, and their patients every day. Face masks are an integral part of any dental practice’s infection control plan, and deciding which mask to wear should be based on the amount of fluid, spray, and aerosols encountered during procedures. In reality, however, clinicians consider more than protection when choosing a mask, seeking out the right combination of comfort, fit, and breathability, without sacrificing protection.

Like many dental professionals, Dr. Lance Huthwaite says he’s always on the lookout for a more comfortable and breathable mask. When he decided to test Henry Schein’s Maxi-Gard Air Earloop Procedure Mask for this Dental Product Shopper evaluation, Dr. Huthwaite discovered that the mask was soft, comfortable, and easy to keep on for extended periods. He said the earloops and face design were less irritating than many masks, making longer procedures more comfortable.

Since clinicians wear masks for hours each day, comfort is a top priority. According to Henry Schein, the Maxi-Gard Air mask delivers that comfortable fit along with complete coverage and extra breathing room. Ideal for procedures where low amounts of fluid, spray, and aerosols are produced, these masks earned a Best Product rating from DPS evaluators for their protection, comfort, and breathability.

Comfort
Made of soft, non-irritating, latex-free material, the Maxi-Gard Air mask features an adjustable full-width nosepiece and comfortable earloops. “The comfort was amazing, and the new design is well thought out,” shared Dr. Irving Lebovics. “The soft material is gentle on the skin,” said Dr. Luciana Daniels, adding that it is not itchy or irritating. “Compared with my regular mask, this product feels better constructed with upgraded materials,” Dr. Huthwaite noted, and Diane Plaskow said the masks are perfect for everyday use.

Because it did not irritate her face or cause her nose to itch, Deborah Deal, RDH, said she was able to focus on procedures without the distraction of dealing with an uncomfortable mask. After enjoying the softness of the Maxi-Gard Air mask, hygienist Dawn Hines said she was disappointed when the evaluation period was complete and she had to go back to wearing the masks that her office normally uses. “I could feel the difference right away, and I wanted the Henry Schein mask,” Hines shared.

Breathability
The Maxi-Gard Air mask features a contoured design that enhances air flow and improves breathability, which Henry Schein calls Air Space Technology. “The mask is comfortable and easy to breathe through,” stated Dr. H.E. Henry. Plaskow said, “I felt like I could breathe better with this mask.” Dr. J. Michael Heider said his favorite feature was the lack of restricted air flow, explaining, “Some masks with high filtration can be hot or have restricted air flow. This product solved the air flow and temperature issue.”

While Amy Howard, RDH, said the Maxi-Gard Air mask seemed tight on her face and made her feel too warm while wearing it, Hines pointed out that the mask did not feel hot, even when she was warm. “It was easy to wear and I never had any issues with fogging while wearing my loupes,” Hines added.
Fit & Durability
Ideal for procedures with low fluid production, the Maxi-Gard Air mask meets ASTM Level 1 standards. It contours to the face to cover the nose, mouth, and chin, and is available in 3 colors—blue, white, and lavender.

Along with several clinicians, Dr. Lebovics praised the mask for its “amazing fit and feel.” Noting that the Maxi-Gard Air masks are lighter weight, softer, and a better fit than her previous masks, hygienist Brenda Buergi said she plans to ask her employer to switch to this product. “The mask fit well and didn’t have the fuzzy feel that tickles my nose,” said Deal, adding, “I was able to adjust it to my nose so no fogging of my glasses.”

Diane Plaskow,
RDH; Sherman
Oaks, CA
"The mask was very comfortable with more breathing space than other masks.""
Compared to other masks, Dr. Lebovics said the Maxi-Gard Air mask caused less fogging of his glasses. “I found the coverage to be excellent,” shared Dr. Heider, who reported some air leakage from the top of the mask which caused some fogging. Calling the mask a “well-made and durable product,” Dr. Huthwaite suggested improving the fit of the nosepiece so it seals better around his nose, while Hines reported, “I had no fogging of my loupes while wearing this mask.”

Overall Satisfaction
“I was pleasantly surprised and very happy with the masks,” shared Hines, who said her coworkers all liked the product. “In an office of our size, it means a lot when we all agree on something,” she added. Most of the evaluators said they would recommend the Maxi-Gard Air masks to their colleagues. Dr. Len Tau, who said the product was comfortable and fit well, added, “All things considered and being equal, I would consider using the product in the future.”
takeaways
ASTM level 1 fluid-resistant earloop procedure mask
Innovative design enhances air flow space for improved breathability
Contoured for complete coverage and fit
Latex-free, available in blue, white, and lavender
Comfortable for extended wear
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Maxi-Gard Air Earloop Procedure Masks

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Products are evaluated by dental professionals who use the products in their practices for about 4 weeks. The final score is calculated by combining an individual criteria average with an overall satisfaction average. All products are rated on a 5 to 1 scale.
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