Not all masks are created equal, yet two years into a global pandemic many people still do not understand the important differences between the numerous styles of masks and respirators and what level of protection is needed to protect against Omicron and future variants. This quick overview will point out the “Dentec Difference” when choosing proper protection for yourself and loved ones.

3 Ply, cloth & gator style masks are reported to be ineffective against the spread of COVID due to the fact they do not provide filtration, are loose fitting and cannot provide a tight seal. Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Dr. Faucci reported that the only effective respirator to use is an N95 (or better) respirator that provides a tight seal.

With a cloth face covering (Cloth FC), the user has 75% inward and outward leakage. Users may wear for source control but should limit time indoor with others and proximity to others. (Inward and outward effectiveness of cloth masks, a surgical mask, and a face shield | medRxiv).

With a surgical mask, the user has 50% inward and outward leakage A surgical mask may be appropriate to wear as source control. However, it does not provide adequate protection for users from inhalable infectious particles. (Inward and outward effectiveness of cloth masks, a surgical mask, and a face shield | medRxiv).

With a non-fit tested N95 FFR (filtering face piece respirator) the user has 1-10% inward leakage and outward leakage (assuming you’re wearing a respirator without an exhalation valve). Further examination is required to quantify the exact amount of source control provide by respirators with exhalation valves, however current studies do support those respirators with exhalation valves provide at least similar source control compared to a loose fitting 3-Ply or Surgical Mask.

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