Abstract: A protective shroud for a dental handpiece having particular adaptability for encasing a bur-containing chuck on a handpiece to avoid percutaneous contact by the bur with an individual and the transfer of a contaminated substance, such as a virus. The protective shroud is provided with sufficient depth so that the bur of a dental handpiece is stored behind the leading edge of the shroud and does not protrude therefrom, thereby preventing accidental contact with the bur. The shroud is also provided with a cut-out portion, typically facing the direction of the dentist or dental technician, which permits grasping of the handpiece below the bur to effect ready withdrawal and return of the handpiece from and to the protective shroud while performing dental operations on a patient.