The dental dam (or square of latex or polyurethane) is essential to protect against sexually transmitted infections during the practice of oral sex. It is also used by the dentist.
A dental dam is a square or rectangle of latex or polyurethane (So latex free) which provides protection in the event of oral sex (practices such as the cunnilingus or rimming) of the sexually transmitted infections. This device, still little known and used, is totally waterproof. How the laidand where? What is the price ? When to put it? Discovery.
What is a dental dam?
The dental dam (or oral dam) is a latex square used during bucco-genital (cunnilingus) or bucco-anal (anilingus) intercourse so as not to take the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Dental dam or latex square are two terms that refer to substantially the same object “unless we mean by square of latex, the homemade manufacture of what will serve as a dental dam. However, what will differ will rather concern the material: latex for a dam or homemade manufacture, or other (nitrile type) for intolerant/allergic people.
Should you choose a dental dam with or without latex?
Most dental dams are made of latex. But there are latex-free dental dams made of synthetic material, for example nitrile or polyurethane, for allergy sufferers. Originally, the dental dam was used by dental surgeons to isolate the tooth from saliva, which makes it possible to use certain products or tools on the teeth without risk of ingestion by the patient.
What is the interest of the dental dam at the dentist?
At the dentist, the dental dam is positioned around the tooth the dentist is working on. It is thus isolated from the rest of the oral cavity (in particular from the patient’s saliva which contains bacteria) like an operating field. It also prevents the patient from forcing to keep the mouth open during longer treatments, prevents the diffusion of the sometimes unpleasant tastes of the products. The rubber dam also reduces the risk of injury and possible falling of small instruments during the procedure.
Why put on a dental dam during sex?
Dental dam should be used in all reports that have a tongue to sex contact or anus. It is essential when there are several partners or when screenings are not done regularly or if you have eaten/drank something that may irritate your partner. Some couples also use it when the woman is menstruating. Sexologist Claire Alquier explains that the dental dam “is placed between the mouth and the vulva and/or between the mouth and the anus and therefore makes it possible to practice cunnilingus Where rimming safely”. The dam serves as a kind of screen and protects the mouth and mucous membranes “in bucco-genital or bucco-anal practices”. dental dam, whether it is well used in case of oral sex, is a simple way to protect yourself from the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. On the other hand, it can happen that it slips during the act, so you have to be vigilant.
Photo: What does a dental dam look like?
The dental dam is a square or rectangle of latex or thin and flexible polyurethane completely impermeable.
The placement of a dental dam is not not complicated, but you should read the user manual carefully. “You have to take the time necessary to be comfortable with the tool” advises the sex therapist. It is also important to respect certain rules:
- Carefully open the package by hand (do not use sharp or pointed objects). Be careful not to damage the rubber dam with fingernails, jewelry, or any sharp objects.
- Place the dam over your partner’s vulva or anus and hold it so it doesn’t move.
- If you want to use lubricant, check that it is compatible with the material of your mouth dam.
- As soon as you are finished, throw the dam in the trash.
- Never go from the anus to the vulva and from the vulva to the anus,
- Use the dam only once per report and per person (single use).
- Do not reuse rubber dam oral.
- Don’t return it during use.
- Do not use the same dam for rimming then cunnilingus or vice versa.
Little more : “It is often advised to put some lubricant water between the vulva or anus and the dam” for comfort and pleasure.
Where to put a dental dam?
During sexual intercourse, the dental dam is to be placed between the mouth of one of the partners and the vulva, anus or penis of another. At the dentist, it is placed around one or more teeth depending on the treatment to be performed and the area to be isolated.
Can you make a dental dam yourself with a condom?
You can actually make your own dam yourself with a latex condom or glove (or nitrile condom). It’s very simple, just follow a tutorial on the internet, have scissors and a condom or a glove. It will be necessary to pay attention that the size is adapted: the entire area that will be in contact with the mouth must be protected.
Can you buy a dental dam in a pharmacy?
The dental dam can be purchased in pharmacy or in sex shops. It can also be found in certain prevention centers and associations or in dental clinics. On the Internet, laboratories like Terpan also sell it.
What precautions should be taken when buying a dental dam?
When buying a dental dam, you should pay attention to several points:
- Always check that the dental dam is well Standards (French, European or both).
- Make sure of the material, especially if you suffer from allergies or intolerances.
- Check the expiration date. has not been exceeded and that the packaging is in good condition. If not, discard the oral dam and get another one.
How much does a dental dam cost?
It takes between 60 cents and one euro for a dental dam. Generally, packs of 8 dental dams are sold for 10 euros.
Thanks to Claire Alquier, sexologist.