What Are Dental Dams?

Dental dams are thin, flexible sheets made of latex or non-latex material that are used to isolate the teeth being worked on during dental procedures. They are designed to prevent contamination of the surgical site by saliva and other fluids, as well as to provide a barrier between the patient’s mouth and the dental instruments.

Uses of Dental Dams

Preventing Contamination

One of the primary uses of dental dams is to prevent contamination of the surgical site. By isolating the teeth being worked on, dental dams help to ensure that the area remains clean and free of saliva, blood, and other fluids that could interfere with the procedure.

Improving Visibility

Dental dams also help to improve visibility for the dentist by keeping the area dry and free of moisture. This allows the dentist to see the teeth more clearly and perform the procedure more accurately.

Protecting the Patient

Dental dams provide a barrier between the patient’s mouth and the dental instruments, reducing the risk of injury or damage to the patient’s lips, cheeks, and tongue during the procedure.

Types of Dental Dams

Latex Dental Dams

Latex dental dams are the most common type of dental dam and are made from natural latex rubber. They are flexible, easy to use, and provide a good barrier against fluids. However, some patients may be allergic to latex, so non-latex alternatives are available.

Non-Latex Dental Dams

Non-latex dental dams are made from synthetic materials such as polyurethane or nitrile. They are suitable for patients who are allergic to latex and provide similar levels of protection and flexibility as latex dams.

Benefits of Using Dental Dams

Improved Infection Control

Using dental dams helps to improve infection control by preventing the spread of bacteria and other pathogens from the patient’s mouth to the surgical site.

Enhanced Patient Comfort

Dental dams help to improve patient comfort during dental procedures by reducing the amount of moisture in the mouth and providing a barrier between the patient’s teeth and the dental instruments.

Better Outcomes

By improving visibility and reducing the risk of contamination, dental dams help to ensure better outcomes for dental procedures, leading to more successful treatments and happier patients.

Shop Dental Dams at Valuemed

Valuemed offers a wide selection of dental dams, including latex and non-latex options, to meet your dental practice’s needs. Browse our selection today and discover the benefits of using dental dams in your procedures.

Our ValueDam dental dams are available in Latex and Non-Latex and are comparable in feel and use to the leading national brand names on the market. Try our ValueDam dental dams today and see for yourself.