Rubber dam usage is considered the standard of care for tooth isolation in root canal treatment, according to the American Association of Endodontics. Rubber dams, or dental dams, are sheets of latex or latex-free material into which holes are punched to expose teeth for root canals and other procedures. They isolate the treatment site and protect the root canal system from exposure to bacteria in the mouth.
Root canal treatment, or endodontic therapy, is one of the most common dental procedures. Globally, more than 55% of the population has at least one root-filled tooth. The procedure involves the removal of infected or damaged pulp from the root of the tooth, which is then disinfected, filled, and sealed. Finally, the tooth is topped with a crown for strength and stability, restoring the tooth’s natural shape and function.
In this article, we will discuss the uses and benefits of rubber dams and look at how they optimize endodontic care and patient outcomes.
Rubber dams are essential for endodontic procedures, isolating the diseased tooth from the tongue and oral cavity to protect the tooth’s exposed soft tissue from contamination. Rubber dams benefit practitioners by ensuring a clean, dry environment and clear visuals of the tooth for working and image-taking. For patients, they help protect against infection and prevent the aspiration or swallowing of dental materials, debris, and liquids.
Clamps are typically used to hold rubber dams in place around individual teeth during endodontic therapy. They are available in winged and wingless types and various sizes for the ideal fit. While wingless clamps are thought to provide a tighter hold to avoid slippage, the winged variety may provide a more comfortable experience for the patient by protecting surrounding tissue. Regardless of the preferred clamp style, forceps are generally used to position rubber dams and secure them around the tooth.
The following is a selection of leading dental dam clamps and forceps on the market.
Made of corrosion-resistant satin steel, these rubber dam clamps have a matte coating that cuts glare from overhead lights. They ensure practitioner comfort by minimizing eye fatigue while keeping the procedural area clean and dry. Flexible and strong, they retain perfect shape memory and come in various sizes to suit anterior, premolar, and molar applications, such as 2A and 2AS for larger premolars.
Hu-Friedy also offers dental dam clamps in a dark satin finish to provide exceptional visual contrast and glare reduction. Heat-treated for strength, these clamps feature high flexibility and shape memory for maximum adjustment and performance.
These precision ivory-type forceps from House Brand Dentistry (HSB) are crafted from durable AISI 410 stainless steel. Made for the seamless handling of dental dam clamps, these 17 cm forceps ensure accurate placement and control during dental procedures. Their ergonomic design also makes them comfortable in the hand and easy to use.
Root canals have the power to improve lives, by eliminating painful infections and preserving teeth. The use of rubber dams during root canal treatment helps ensure optimal outcomes. They isolate the working field, provide comfortable protection, and minimize the risk of infection, ultimately restoring healthy smiles.