Many people are surprised to see a sheet of rubber placed around the mouth. It is a tool that makes treatment more precise and safer.
- A rubber dam isolates the tooth from saliva during treatment.
- It helps fillings last longer and makes root canal work safer.
- You breathe through your nose as usual and it does not hurt.
- Tell the dentist about latex allergy so a latex free sheet is used.
A rubber dam, also called an isolation sheet, is a thin piece of rubber with a small hole that is placed around the tooth being treated. It separates the tooth from saliva and the moist environment of the mouth. Many people find it unusual the first time, but it is a very common tool in everyday dentistry and has been used for a very long time.
What the rubber dam is used for
During a filling or root canal treatment, the tooth must be kept dry and clean. If saliva seeps in, the filling material bonds poorly and bacteria can reach the root. The rubber dam also holds back the tongue and cheeks from the drill, and it prevents small instruments or rinsing fluid from dropping into the throat.
Benefits for the patient
- Fillings last longer because the tooth stays dry throughout the procedure.
- Root canal treatment is safer because small instruments cannot fall into the throat.
- You do not need to spit constantly, so the jaw tires less.
- Rinsing fluid and chemicals are kept away from the tongue and cheeks.
For many people, this makes the visit feel calmer, because there is less water pooling in the mouth and less need to swallow or cough.
What it feels like to wear one
At first you may feel a little tight and find it harder to talk, but it does not hurt. You can still breathe through the nose as usual, and the dentist will explain what to do. If you feel uncomfortable, raise your hand so you can take a break. People with a latex allergy should tell the dentist beforehand so that a latex free sheet can be used, and you can read more in our article on latex allergy at the dentist.
After the sheet is removed, your mouth and lips may feel slightly tired for a few minutes. See also our article on how many visits root canal treatment takes. You can walk in during working hours or call the hotline 028.3868.1097.
Frequently asked questions
Does a rubber dam hurt?
No. You may only feel a little tight at first.
Can I breathe with a rubber dam on?
Yes, you breathe through your nose as usual. Raise your hand if you feel uncomfortable.
Can people with latex allergy have a rubber dam?
Latex free sheets exist. Tell the dentist beforehand.