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Dental Dams

How to Use a Dental Dam or Latex Doily

First of all, you might be wondering, What is a Dental Dam?
A dental dam is a small (about 6 inches square) sheet of latex, the same material used to make latex condoms. The dental dam is used as an oral (mouth) barrier between the mouth and the vagina or anus.

You may have heard the word dental dam at your dentist’s office. Dental dams were first used by dentists during oral surgery. Since HIV and other sexually transmitted infections can be passed from the vagina and anus, dental dams are becoming an everyday safer sex item. Dental dams basically help to prevent infectious bacteria or viruses from coming into contact with the mouth. The manufacturers of dental dams are making the simple latex barriers in a variety of colors, flavors, sizes, and shapes.

Dental dams are harder to find than condoms. In fact, many drug stores do not carry dental dams. They can, however, be purchased at many adult/safer sex stores or dental/medical supply stores. Many AIDS service organizations also have access to or can help you find dental dams in your area. Individuals can make a homemade dental dam by cutting a male latex condom (be careful not to puncture or scratch the latex) or by using a piece of non-microwavable plastic wrap. Microwavable plastic wrap is NOT safe because it has tiny holes in the surface that bacteria can pass through.

NOTE: Cutting condoms or using plastic wrap has NOT been proven effective in preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

How Effective Are Dental Dams?
If used correctly and consistently, dental dams are an extremely effective means of preventing the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections from vaginal or anal secretions via the mouth.

Prior to using a dental dam:

1. Check the dam for damage. Do not use a dental dam that is yellowed, brittle, or sticky.
2. Lightly rinse off the dental dam with warm water. Gently pat dry the dental dam with a towel or let it air-dry.
3. Re-check the dental dam to be sure that it is free of holes or damage. You can check the dam before you use it by holding it up to a light.
4. Always be certain that only one side of the dental dam comes in contact with the genitals and that the opposite side is the one that comes in contact with the mouth. Otherwise, you are defeating the whole purpose of using the dental dam.
5. Only use water based lubricants when using dental dams. Water based lubricants are the same lubricants that are safe to use with a latex condom. Other types of lubricants can cause the dental dam to fail. See our section on Lubricants to find out what kinds of lube you can use.
6. Only use a dental dam once and dispose of it. Dental dams cannot be re-used.

How Do You Use Dental Dams?

Here are some basic steps on how to use a dental dam:

1. Rinse the powdery talc from the dental dam. Pat dry with a towel or let air dry.
2. Inspect the dental dam for defects such as holes or tears.
3. Place water-based lubricant on the side that faces the vagina or anus.
4. Using both hands, firmly spread the dental dam over the entire vagina or anus.
5. Make sure to keep one side towards you and the other side towards your partner. If you forget which side is which, stop and start over using a new dental dam.
6. Do not move the dental dam back and forth between the vagina and anus as it can cause infection.
7. After using, wrap the dental dam in tissue and throw it away where others will not come in contact with it. Don’t flush it down the toilet. Don’t share or reuse dams.

Note: The safest way to engage in oral sex with your partner is to use a condom or dental dam during every sexual encounter.

This information is designed for educational purposes only. If you have questions, talk to your health professional or an HIV/AIDS risk reduction specialist. To find a health professional or service agency in your area of Pennsylvania, please use our online resource directory.