Rubber Dam

  • A dental rubber dam is a rectangular sheet made of latex or non-latex material that is used to isolate a single tooth or group of adjacent teeth during dental procedures.
  • The dam is placed around the tooth to be treated, held in place with clamps and stretched tight with using a frame, to keep the area dry and free of saliva.
  • The dam also protects the patient’s airway and prevents debris and other materials from entering the mouth during the procedure.
  • The use of a rubber dam helps to increase visibility and access to the tooth being treated, which makes the procedure more efficient and reduces the risk of injury or infection.
  • Dental rubber dams come in various sizes and thicknesses, and can be colored to match the patient’s natural tooth color.
  • They are used for a variety of dental procedures, including fillings, root canal treatments.
  • The rubber dam is a standard tool in modern dentistry and is considered essential for the safe and efficient delivery of dental care.

Placing a rubber dam

  1. Gather Necessary Materials: Ensure you have all the required materials ready, including a rubber dam, rubber dam clamp, dental floss, rubber dam punch, frame, forceps, and a mirror.
  2. Prepare the Patient: Explain the procedure to the patient, and make sure they are comfortable in the dental chair. Ensure proper lighting and provide protective eyewear.
  3. Select the Appropriate Clamp: Choose the correct rubber dam clamp for the tooth being treated. The clamp should fit securely around the tooth’s crown.
  4. Punch Holes in the Rubber Dam: Use a rubber dam punch to create holes in the rubber dam sheet. These holes should align with the tooth or teeth to be isolated. Ensure the holes are the correct size for the selected clamp.
  5. Thread Dental Floss Through the Holes: Thread dental floss through the holes in the rubber dam, creating a loop on each side of the sheet. This will help in positioning and securing the dam.
  6. Place the Rubber Dam Over the Tooth: Gently stretch the rubber dam sheet and position it over the patient’s mouth, aligning the appropriate hole over the tooth to be isolated. Ensure the rubber dam covers the mouth entirely.
  7. Secure the Rubber Dam Clamp: Use rubber dam forceps to grasp the clamp and carefully slide it over the tooth’s crown. Ensure it fits securely without damaging the tooth or dam.
  8. Attach the Dental Floss Loops to the Clamp: Attach the dental floss loops from the rubber dam to the clamp’s wings or hook. This will keep the dam in place and maintain a dry field.
  9. Check and Adjust: Verify that the rubber dam is properly placed, covering the tooth and surrounding area. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it is secure and functional.
  10. Perform the Dental Procedure: With the rubber dam in place, you can proceed with the dental procedure, knowing that the isolated area is dry and protected from contamination.
  11. Monitor the Patient: Continuously monitor the patient’s comfort and well-being throughout the procedure. Address any concerns or discomfort promptly.
  12. Remove the Rubber Dam: After completing the dental procedure, carefully remove the rubber dam clamp and the dam itself. Dispose of the used materials properly.
  13. Post-Treatment Care: Provide the patient with post-treatment instructions and any necessary follow-up care. Ensure the patient is comfortable and free from any discomfort.
  14. Remember that proper rubber dam placement is essential for both the patient’s safety and the success of the dental procedure. If you are not a trained dental professional, it is essential to seek guidance and supervision from a qualified dentist before attempting to place a rubber dam.