In a dental setting, what may the clinical supply refrigerator be used to preserve?

The clinical supply refrigerator in a dental setting is primarily used to preserve bonding materials. These materials often require specific temperature conditions to maintain their efficacy and usability. Many dental adhesives and bonding agents are sensitive to temperature changes; keeping them refrigerated prevents premature curing and ensures that they remain effective when needed for procedures like placing restorations or dental fixtures.

In a dental practice, the other options aren't appropriate for refrigeration. Gloves and masks, which are typically stored in a dry, clean area for accessibility and sterility, do not require cooling. Dental charts are crucial for patient information and are stored in a secure area, often on digital platforms or in filing cabinets, rather than in a refrigerator. Sterilizing equipment, which undergoes a process to eliminate contaminants, is not stored in a refrigerator but rather in dedicated storage areas post-sterilization.