The rubber dam is a square canvas used by dentists to ensure a dry working field and better visibility during dental procedures. It increases patient comfort and saliva control. This is particularly important during endodontic treatment, commonly known as a root canal, as bacteria in the saliva can contaminate the root canals, negatively affecting the prognosis of the tooth being treated.
The oral cavity is isolated from all fluids and antiseptic solutions used during dental treatment. Additionally, it provides protection to the patient from the possibility of swallowing small instruments (most often during endodontic treatment).
The rubber dam was first used over 140 years ago when in 1864, Dr. Barnum in England made a hole in a sheet of rubber to isolate the lower molar. Since then, the rubber dam has significantly improved the dentist’s work and reduced the patient’s discomfort in the dental chair.
They are available in a variety of colors and flavors, making their use completely tolerable and pleasant for the patient.
Its use is not limited to endodontic treatment but extends to other dental procedures such as filling placement and bonding restorations of natural teeth.
In all these cases, the use of a rubber dam is considered absolutely necessary because it not only improves the properties of dental materials but also maximizes the chances for successful treatment outcomes.
Frequent use of the rubber dam ensures many advantages for the patient and our dental services, as its use not only better protects the patient during dental treatment but also reduces working time and increases the quality of the results.
