How a Dental Dam Keeps Your Mouth Clean While We Work
Posted on 3/3/2025 by Duggan Endodontics Office
For some of the procedures we commonly perform, a dental dam can be helpful for isolating the area we are working on and keeping the rest of your mouth clean. Read on to learn more about what a dental dam is and when it might be necessary.
What Does a Dental Dam Do?
A dental dam is a six inch by six inch square of a thin, stretchy material such as latex or nitrile. It has a hole in the center, which is used to isolate the specific tooth or teeth we are operating on. The dental dam is clamped in place so it will not move during your procedure. Dental dams are sometimes known as rubber dams or Kofferdams. By isolating the specific treatment area, a dental dam keeps the rest of your mouth clean while we operate. It also prevents blood, saliva, and bacteria from contaminating the treatment site and causing an infection, especially if the inside of your tooth is exposed during your procedure (such as in a root canal). Additionally, dental dams prevent patients from swallowing surgical tools or materials.
When is a Dental Dam Necessary?
Dental dams are commonly used in all kinds of endodontic and prosthodontic procedures. We most often use dental dams while performing root canals, but prosthodontists frequently use dental dams for placing crowns, bridges, and veneers as well. A dental dam can be a helpful tool for any dental procedure that involves only one specific area of the mouth. It might feel strange or uncomfortable if we use a dental dam during your endodontic treatment, especially if you have never experienced one before. Just remember that we are using this tool to keep your mouth clean and healthy, and prevent infection and other complications. Contact us to learn more about dental dams.
For some of the procedures we commonly perform, a dental dam can be helpful for isolating the area we are working on and keeping the rest of your mouth clean. Read on to learn more about what a dental dam is and when it might be necessary.