It is very important to have a sterile, dry field for successful dental treatments. Dentists employ various instruments and methods to achieve the best conditions when in your mouth. One of these important instruments is the dental dam. Although used for over 150 years, the vast majority of patients have no idea about this straightforward yet efficient isolation device that maximizes the success of treatment and enhances safety.
This article explores dental dams, such as what they are, how they are used in contemporary dentistry, how to properly use them, and the benefits they provide for patients and dentists.
What is a Dental Dam?
A dental dam is a thin, flexible sheet of latex or latex-free material. Dentists use it when treating to isolate one or more teeth from the rest of your mouth. Isolation is necessary as it keeps the area dry, clean, or free from contamination with saliva, blood, or other body fluids.
You may hear other names, such as rubber dam dental or dental rubber dam, all refer to the same concept. The dental dam is like a barrier, which provides a clean field to allow dentists to work accurately without any interference from moisture or contamination.
Types of Dental Dam Materials
Dental rubber dams exist in many materials to satisfy various clinical demands:
- Latex: Time-tested option with excellent elasticity and tear strength
- Nitrile: Latex-free substitute for latex-sensitive patients
Innovative dental dams have numerous features like multiple thicknesses for different procedures, multiple colors for visibility, and universal 6×6-inch sizes.
Dental Dam Application
Dental dams have many practical uses. In modern dentistry, dental dams act as a crucial tool used in a wide variety of procedures. Here’s where you’ll see a dental dam use:
- Root Canal Treatment: During root canal treatment it is very important to keep saliva and bacteria out of the tooth interior. To provide a sterile environment the dental dam is used to isolate the tooth.
- Fillings and Restorations: The dentist places composite fillings, crowns, and other restorations by using a dental dam to keep the tooth from becoming wet. Water hinders the bonding of dental materials to the tooth.
- Teeth Whitening: Dental dams protect soft tissues and gums from irritation caused by professional whitening with bleaching substances.
- Protecting the Patient: The dental rubber dam protects against swallowing small instruments, debris, or dental material during treatment.
- Infection Control: It reduces the risk of cross-contamination since it separates the tooth from blood and saliva.
- Orthodontic and Other Procedures: Occasionally, dental dams can be used in orthodontic or other procedures for the protection of unaffected areas.
The function of a dental dam is to render dental procedures safer, cleaner, and more comfortable.
How to Use a Dental Dam?
To ensure the effectiveness of a dental dam, it is crucial to use it correctly. If you’re a dental professional or simply curious, here’s a detailed look at dental dams use:
- Select the Right Dental Dam:
Dental dams are available in various thicknesses (thin, medium, heavy) and sizes. The dentist or nurse selects depending on procedure and patient comfort.
- Punch Holes in the Dam:
Small holes are drilled corresponding to the teeth to be treated with the help of a special hole punch. Each of the holes fits tightly around a tooth.
- Attach the Dam to a Frame
The sheet of the dam is stretched over a frame to make it tight. The frame holds the dam and ensures that it doesn’t fall into the mouth.
- Position the Dam:
The sheet is placed over the mouth in a way that the teeth pass through the punched holes.
- Put Dental Clamps:
Metal retainers or clamps are fitted around the teeth to hold the dam securely in place. The clamp does not slip and prevents the proper sealing of the dam around each tooth.
- Seal the Edges:
To prevent saliva from slipping under the dam, edges can be sealed with sealants or dental floss.
- Check for Comfort:
The dentist or dental nurse ensures that the dam is tight enough but not uncomfortably tight for the patient. Any adjustments are done if needed.
Clinical Uses of the Dental Dam
You might wonder why dentists do not simply work as usual, but need dental dam usage. Here are the key advantages that make such a simple device so important:
Better Visibility and Access:
The dentist can see well into the tooth because the treatment area is separated, and they can apply their skills with more accuracy. That precision can improve the outcome of treatment.
Dries the Area:
Most dental substances, including composites and adhesives, require a dry surface in order to bond effectively. Saliva or moisture interference is avoided by the dental dam.
Patient Safety:
There is a risk that you may swallow or inhale debris, dental instruments, or chemicals during dental treatments. Dental dam acts as a barrier that shields your airway during treatment.
Less Risk of Infection:
Isolating the tooth inhibits the access of saliva and blood, minimizing bacterial contamination or cross-infection.
Improved Patient Comfort:
Although it can take a little adjusting to, patients tend to prefer that the dam reduces gagging and keeps the mouth open and relaxed.
Time Saving:
Procedures tend to be done more rapidly because the dentist is able to work without such distraction by saliva or motion of the tongue.
Improved Treatment Quality:
Maintaining the site free from germs and dryness, dental dams enable dentists to give better-quality repairs and restorations.
Where to Buy a Dental Dam?
Different dental supply companies provide dental dams. You can buy them online or from dental supply stores. But it is crucial to make sure that you buy from credible and industry-recognized companies. Some of them are Henry Schein Dental, Ivoclar, and Coltene. When buying a dental dam, ensure that you account for durability, elasticity, and patient comfort.
Aidite is a standout manufacturer of dental supplies. They produce products that are functional and reliable. Always invest in high-quality supplies to meet the standard of modern dentistry.
FAQs About Dental Dam
Can rubber dams be placed by dental nurses?
Yes. Dental nurses are able to place rubber dams upon training and certification. Most dental clinics make use of certified nurses to prepare the dam so that the dentist can perform the procedure itself.
How to place a dental rubber dam?
Inserting a dental rubber dam includes choosing the appropriate size, creating holes for the teeth to be isolated, stretching the dam across a frame, placing it over the teeth, clamping it in place, and sealing edges where needed.
How to use a dental dam?
When in position, the dental rubber dam isolates the area being treated in the mouth for the dental treatment during the dental procedure. It seals out moisture, protects soft tissues, and avoids contamination. When treatment is done, the dam is removed with care to avoid causing any discomfort.
What is a dental rubber dam?
A dental rubber dam is a light sheeting, usually latex or latex-free, used to seal teeth during dental procedures. It repels saliva and bacteria from the working area and ensures the precision of treatments.
What is a dental dam for oral use?
A dental dam for oral use is a thin sheet made of plastic, latex, or nitrile used to prevent STIs during oral sex. It provides protection by blocking the body fluids.
Conclusion
Dental dams are a valuable instrument in contemporary dentistry, providing a dry, clean, and safe setting for most dental procedures. In root canals, fillings, or whitening, the dental dam assists dentists in offering greater care with added precision and patient safety.
If you’re looking into quality dental materials to support these procedures, Aidite’s products are a perfect fit. Known for their innovation and reliability, Aidite’s materials help dental professionals achieve durable, natural-looking results. Their advanced solutions enhance both the functional and aesthetic outcomes of treatments, making every smile shine brighter.