Rubber Dam Clamps: Application & Health Benefits

A rubber dam is used to isolate individual teeth from others. In a sense, there is a cloth over the oral cavity, through which only the tooth or teeth to be treated emerge. In this way, the tooth in question is protected from undesirable influences. The rubber dam must be secured with rubber dam clamps that hold it in place.

What are rubber dam clamps?

The rubber dam is used to isolate individual teeth from others. The rubber dam must be secured with rubber dam clamps. With the rubber dam, the teeth are shielded, saliva and bacteria no longer interfere with the treatment as a result. The patient is also protected, as inhalation or swallowing of harmful residues is prevented. During treatment, the tooth in question must be as dry as possible. In the case of root canal treatment, the root canal must also be protected. Bacteria could otherwise penetrate and cause inflammation. Rubber dams are similar to a stretching rubber, which is stretched in front of the healthy teeth with the help of rubber dam clamps. The teeth to be treated are thus exposed. This method was developed by a New York dentist as early as 1864. After further developments of dental aids, the enormous importance of rubber dams decreased, but still today many dentists appreciate the benefits of the rubber dam and rubber dam clamps.

Shapes, types and styles

Rubber dam clamps have proven their worth in many cases; they do a good job in root canals, fillings and when amalgam needs to be removed. A rubber dam is also recommended for tooth whitening, and when adhesive fillings are necessary, they likewise protect the teeth. Clamps on the rubber dam also prevent the root canal from coming into contact with pathogens. The gums must also be protected, especially if bleaching is performed. This is because corrosive substances are used for this and must not touch the gums under any circumstances. Normally, the rubber dam is made of latex. However, since latex can cause allergies, a rubber dam was developed especially for allergy sufferers, which is tolerated by everyone. The rubber dam is attached to rubber dam clamps. As an alternative to these clamps, threads, dental floss or interdental wedges can also be used. The dentist needs accessories, a hole punch and a clamp pliers are necessary. A clamping frame is also necessary, with this the clamping rubber is stretched in front of the patient’s mouth. Ergonomic rubber dams are now available, which have a dimple-like design. This eliminates the need to mark and punch out the holes. Some models have integrated plastic rings that make the clamps superfluous. There are also systems that are already perforated, basically saving the dentist any preparation.

Structure and mode of operation

Rubber dam systems work very simply. The tooth to be treated must be kept dry, which provides good protection against saliva and moisture from the breath. Dry suctioning then does not need to be done. During dental treatment, corrosive substances are often used, and there may also be substances in medications that are harmful to the patient’s health. However, the rubber dam exposes only those teeth that require treatment. The rest of the mouth is covered. In this way, nothing can enter the oral cavity or the respiratory tract, and no more objects are swallowed. This can happen quickly and amalgam residues or residues from the tooth can thus enter the esophagus. The tension frame is stretched in front of the mouth and practically nothing can end up in the mouth that does not belong there. Rubber is then placed over the teeth that are not to be treated and secured with rubber dam clips. The teeth to be treated protrude from the punched holes. Sometimes the gums also have to be treated; in the case of gingivitis, the tooth can be separated from the gums in this way. Although the mouth must be kept open the entire time even with rubber dam systems, it is possible for the patient to continue swallowing during treatment.

Medical and health benefits

The rubber dam has disadvantages as well as advantages. The advantages are obvious because when a rubber dam is stretched, the dentist no longer has to focus on suction. The mouth remains open, but the oral cavity is protected. However, the rubber dam clamps can easily lead to ulcers in the gums, because the clamps have a tremendous pressure.If the gums are pushed back strongly, an unwanted reaction of the gums may also occur. Although previously invisible areas of the tooth are made visible, the use of the rubber dam can cause inflammation of the gums. The rubber dam should not be used at all in cases of epilepsy, asthma or respiratory diseases. Special care should also be taken if anxiety disorders are present. A responsible dentist will take this into account.