What is a Dental Dam and how to use it?

Dental dams are a highly effective form of protection against STIs during oral sex. When used consistently and correctly, dental dams can greatly reduce the risk of transmission of infections such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis, and HIV.

However, it is important to note that dental dams are not as effective as condoms in preventing the transmission of STIs during penetrative sex, and they do not provide protection against STIs or conditions that are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, such as HPV, herpes, or pubic lice.

What do Dental Dams Protect Against

Dental dams are a barrier method of protection that can greatly reduce your risk of sharing the fluids that carry STIs during oral sex, including:

• syphilis
• gonorrhea
• chlamydia
• hepatitis
• HIV
• Trichomoniasis: This STI is caused by a parasite and is transmitted through sexual contact. Using a dental dam can help to prevent the transmission of trichomoniasis during oral sex.
• Genital warts: These warts are caused by certain strains of HPV and are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Using a dental dam can help to prevent the transmission of genital warts during oral sex.

They can also protect against the transmission of bacteria and intestinal parasites during oral anal play.

What don’t Dental Dams Protect Against

Dental dams do not protect against STIs or conditions that are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, such as:

• HPV – Human papillomavirus
• herpes
• pubic lice

Where Can You Get Dental Dams?

Dental dams can be difficult to find in stores, but they are typically available at adult stores or online. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and some are even flavored. If you or a partner have a latex allergy, you can look for dental dams made from other materials, such as polyurethane.

Dental dams are typically more expensive than condoms, with a single dam costing around $1 to $2. Some family planning or sexual health clinics stock dental dams and offer them for free.

How to Use a Dental Dam

To use a dental dam, gently tear open the package and remove the dam from the envelope. Unfold it and place it over the genital or anal area, ensuring that it covers the entire area. Do not stretch the dam or press it tightly against the skin, and let it stick to the body naturally.

Hold the dam in place with one or both hands if it begins to move during oral sex. You can also apply a little lube between the dam and the skin to make it more pleasurable and to prevent slippage.

If the dam tears, stop the action and replace it with a new one before continuing.

How to Make Your Own Dental Dam

If you don’t have a dental dam, you can make your own using a condom. To do this, tear open the package and remove the condom. Cut off the tip and unroll it so that it is flat. Cut it down the middle lengthwise to create a sheet.

Alternatively, you can use a non-microwavable plastic wrap or a latex glove as a dental dam. Simply cut off the fingers of the glove to create a rectangular sheet, or cut a piece of plastic wrap to the desired size.

Unknown Facts about Dental Dam

Five little-known facts about dental dams:

1. They were originally invented for use in dentistry: Dental dams were originally developed as a tool for dentists to use during procedures to isolate specific teeth and prevent contamination.
2. They are not as well-known as condoms: While condoms are widely available and well-known as a method of preventing STIs during penetrative sex, dental dams are not as well-known or widely available.
3. They can be made from materials other than latex: While latex is the most common material used for dental dams, they can also be made from materials such as polyurethane or nitrile for people who have latex allergies.
4. They are not as effective as condoms: While dental dams are an effective form of protection against STIs during oral sex, they are not as effective as condoms in preventing the transmission of STIs during penetrative sex.
5. They can be used for oral anal play: In addition to protecting against STIs during oral vaginal or oral penile sex, dental dams can also be used for oral anal play to help prevent the transmission of bacteria and parasites.

Men Like to use Dental Dam?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as individual preferences vary. Some men may find dental dams to be an effective and convenient way to protect against STIs during oral sex, while others may not be as fond of them. It is important for both partners to communicate about their preferences and to use protection that feels comfortable and acceptable to both parties.

If you are in a relationship and are considering using dental dams, it is a good idea to have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your thoughts and feelings.

Woman feelings

It is difficult to say how any individual woman will feel about using a dental dam, as individual experiences and preferences vary. Some women may find that dental dams enhance their pleasure and provide a sense of security and protection during oral sex, while others may find them to be uncomfortable or inconvenient.

It is important for both partners to communicate about their preferences and to use protection that feels comfortable and acceptable to both parties. If you are considering using a dental dam, it is a good idea to talk to your partner about your thoughts and feelings and to find a method of protection that works for both of you.

Conclusion

Dental dams are an effective and trusted form of protection against STIs during oral sex. They are easy to use and can be purchased online or at adult stores. If you cannot find a dental dam, you can make your own using a condom, plastic wrap, or latex glove. Remember to use dental dams consistently and correctly to maximize their effectiveness in preventing the transmission of STIs.