What is a dental dam?
A dental dam is a thin, flexible sheet typically made of latex or polyurethane. It's used as a barrier during oral sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other infections that can be transmitted through oral contact. It's placed over the vulva or anus to create a barrier between the mouth and the genital area.
How do dental dams work?
Dental dams work by creating a barrier between the mouth and the genital area during oral sex. They prevent direct contact with bodily fluids, reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis. The thin, flexible sheet is placed over the vulva or anus, allowing for stimulation while minimizing the risk of transmission of infections.
How do I use a dental dam?
To use a dental dam:
● Choose the Right Type:
Dental dams are available in latex or non-latex materials. Select one that you and your partner are comfortable with.
● Inspect the Dam:
Before use, check the dental dam for any tears or damage. Avoid using it if it's compromised.
● Prepare the Area:
Make sure the genital area is clean. You can also add a small amount of water-based lubricant to enhance sensation and reduce friction.
● Apply the Dental Dam:
Hold the dental dam over the vulva or anus, ensuring full coverage of the area to be stimulated. It's essential to keep the dam in place throughout oral sex.
● Proceed with Oral Stimulation:
Once the dental dam is securely in place, proceed with oral sex as desired. Be mindful to avoid contact between the mouth and the skin outside the protected area.
● Dispose Properly:
After use, carefully remove the dental dam and dispose of it properly. Do not reuse dental dams to prevent the risk of infection.
By following these steps, you can effectively use a dental dam to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections during oral sex.
Can you reuse a dental dam?
No, it is not recommended to reuse a dental dam. Dental dams are designed for single-use only. Reusing a dental dam can increase the risk of transmitting bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens from one person to another. After each use, dental dams should be disposed of properly. Using a new, fresh dental dam each time you engage in oral sex helps maintain hygiene and reduces the risk of infection transmission.
What are the different types of dental dams?
There are primarily two types of dental dams available:
■ Latex Dental Dams:
Latex dental dams are the most common type. They are thin, flexible sheets made from latex rubber. Latex dental dams are effective at creating a barrier during oral sex and are widely available.
■ Non-Latex Dental Dams:
Non-latex dental dams are made from materials other than latex, such as polyurethane or nitrile. These dams are suitable for individuals with latex allergies or sensitivities. Non-latex dental dams offer an alternative barrier method for safer oral sex.
Both types of dental dams serve the same purpose: to provide a barrier between the mouth and the genital area during oral sex, reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Where can I buy a dental dam?
You can buy dental dams from various places, including:
● Online Retailers:
Websites like Amazon, eBay, and online sexual health stores often offer a variety of dental dams for purchase.
● Local Drugstores or Pharmacies:
Many drugstores and pharmacies carry sexual health products, including dental dams. You can check the family planning or sexual health section of these stores.
● Sexual Health Clinics:
Sexual health clinics or community health centers may provide dental dams for free or at a low cost. These facilities often prioritize sexual health and may offer a range of barrier methods.
● Specialty Sexual Health Stores:
Some specialty stores dedicated to sexual health and wellness may carry dental dams along with other sexual health products.
Before purchasing, consider factors like material (latex or non-latex), size, and brand to find the dental dam that best suits your needs.
Can I make my own dental dam?
Yes, you can make your own dental dam using a few common household items. Here's how:
■ Select a Material:
You can use a non-microwavable condom, latex glove, or even a non-lubricated condom that has been cut and laid flat. Additionally, you can use plastic wrap or a non-microwavable plastic bag.
■ Cut and Flatten:
If you're using a condom, carefully cut off the tip and the closed end, then slice along one side to create a flat sheet. If you're using a latex glove, cut off the fingers and then cut along the length to create a flat surface. For plastic wrap or a plastic bag, cut a square or rectangle to your desired size.
■ Inspect for Holes:
Check the material for any holes or tears. If you find any, discard it and use another piece.
■ Apply Lubricant (Optional):
If desired, you can add a small amount of water-based lubricant to one side of the dental dam to enhance sensation and reduce friction during oral sex.
■ Place Over Area:
Hold the dental dam over the vulva or anus, ensuring full coverage of the area to be stimulated.
■ Proceed with Oral Stimulation:
Once the dental dam is securely in place, proceed with oral sex as desired.
Remember that while homemade dental dams can offer some protection, they may not be as effective as commercially produced ones. It's essential to use proper hygiene and ensure that the material used is intact and free of holes or tears. If possible, it's always best to use a dental dam specifically designed for this purpose.
What do dental dams protect against?
Dental dams primarily protect against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during oral sex. They create a barrier between the mouth and the genital or anal area, reducing the risk of exposure to bodily fluids that may contain pathogens such as:
● HIV:
The virus that causes AIDS.
● Herpes simplex virus (HSV):
Which causes genital herpes.
● Gonorrhea:
A bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.
● Syphilis:
A bacterial infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
● Human papillomavirus (HPV):
Some strains of HPV can lead to genital warts or cancer.
● Chlamydia:
A common bacterial STI that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.
Using dental dams consistently and correctly during oral sex can help reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring these and other sexually transmitted infections.
What don’t dental dams protect against?
While dental dams are effective at reducing the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during oral sex, they do not provide complete protection against all potential risks. Here are some factors to consider:
■ Skin-to-Skin Contact:
Dental dams cover specific areas but do not provide protection against skin-to-skin contact outside the covered area. Some STIs, such as genital warts and herpes, can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact even when using a dental dam.
■ Shared Sex Toys:
If sex toys are shared without proper cleaning or protection, they can transmit STIs. Dental dams do not protect against STIs transmitted via contaminated sex toys.
■ STIs Spread by Blood:
Dental dams may not fully protect against STIs transmitted through blood, such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C, if there are open sores or cuts in the mouth or genital area.
■ Risk Reduction, Not Elimination:
While dental dams reduce the risk of STI transmission, they do not eliminate it entirely. The risk is significantly reduced, but there is still a possibility of transmission.
■ Pregnancy Prevention:
Dental dams do not prevent pregnancy. They are designed specifically to reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral sex.
To minimize the risk of STIs and other health concerns, it's important to use dental dams consistently and in combination with other safer sex practices, such as regular STI testing, open communication with sexual partners, and using barrier methods like condoms during penetrative sex.
What are some dental dam dos and don’ts?
Here are some dos and don'ts when it comes to using dental dams:
Dos:
● Use a New Dental Dam Every Time:
Dental dams are designed for single-use only. Use a new, fresh dental dam each time you engage in oral sex to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
● Inspect Before Use:
Before using a dental dam, carefully inspect it for any tears, holes, or damage. Do not use a dental dam if it is compromised in any way.
● Communicate with Your Partner:
Discuss the use of dental dams with your partner before engaging in sexual activity. Open communication about safer sex practices helps ensure mutual understanding and consent.
● Use Lubrication:
Adding a small amount of water-based lubricant to one side of the dental dam can enhance sensation and reduce friction during oral sex.
● Dispose of Properly:
After use, dispose of the dental dam properly in the trash. Do not flush it down the toilet.
Don'ts:
● Reuse Dental Dams:
Do not reuse dental dams. Using a dental dam more than once increases the risk of transmitting infections from one person to another.
● Use Damaged Dental Dams:
Do not use dental dams that are torn, damaged, or expired. Using compromised dental dams can lead to ineffective protection against sexually transmitted infections.
● Neglect Regular STI Testing:
While dental dams can reduce the risk of STI transmission, they do not provide complete protection. It's essential to get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections, especially if you engage in sexual activity with new or multiple partners.
● Ignore Signs of Infection:
If you notice any signs or symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection, such as unusual discharge, sores, or discomfort, seek medical attention promptly. Do not ignore potential signs of infection.
By following these dos and don'ts, you can use dental dams effectively to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections during oral sex while promoting sexual health and well-being.
How were dental dams invented?
Dental dams were invented by Dr. Joycelyn Elders, who served as the Surgeon General of the United States from 1993 to 1994. Dr. Elders recognized the need for a barrier method to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during oral sex. She promoted the use of dental dams as a safer sex practice to help prevent the transmission of STIs such as HIV/AIDS, herpes, and gonorrhea.
Dental dams were originally designed for use in dental procedures to isolate specific areas of the mouth during treatment. Dr. Elders and others adapted this dental tool for use in sexual health practices, recognizing its potential to create a barrier between the mouth and the genital or anal area during oral sex.
The invention of dental dams represented an important advancement in sexual health education and safer sex practices, providing individuals with another tool to protect themselves and their partners from sexually transmitted infections.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, dental dams are thin, flexible sheets made of latex or non-latex materials that serve as a barrier during oral sex. They help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by creating a barrier between the mouth and the genital or anal area. Dental dams are designed for single-use only and should be disposed of properly after each use. While they are effective at reducing the risk of STI transmission, they do not provide complete protection against all risks associated with sexual activity. By following proper usage guidelines and incorporating other safer sex practices, individuals can promote sexual health and well-being. The invention of dental dams, pioneered by Dr. Joycelyn Elders, represents a significant advancement in sexual health education and the promotion of safer sex practices.
