Questions and Answers
What is the dental dam?
It is a stretchable latex or non-latex material that acts as a barrier when applied to select teeth.
What are the indications for use of a dental dam?
Infection control barrier, safeguard the patient's mouth, protect from accidentally inhaling or swallowing debris, protects the tooth from contamination, provides the best moisture control needed, and provides better visibility.
What types of rubber dam materials are there?
Latex or latex-free material, available in a continuous roll or in two precut sizes, wide range of colors from light to dark, available in scented and flavors, thin (light), medium, and heavy.
What size of precut dental dams are there?
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When would you use a 6x6 precut rubber dam?
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Why is a dark colored rubber dam preferred over a light colored rubber dam?
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What is the dental dam frame used for?
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When would you use a 5x5 precut rubber dam?
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What type of dental dam frames are there?
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What is an advantage of using a plastic U-shaped dental dam frame?
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Where do you place the Young's stainless steel frame?
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What is an Otsby frame?
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What is a dental dam napkin used for?
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What is water-soluble lubricant used for?
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What is the dental dam punch used for?
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How many holes does the punch plate have?
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How can you tell which hole is used for which tooth?
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What is the dental dam stamp and template used for?
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What are the dental dam forceps used for?
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What is the purpose of the beak of the dental dam forceps?
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What does the sliding bar on the dental dam forceps do?
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How do you release the clamp?
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Which direction are the beaks turned toward when placing and/or removing the dental dam clamp?
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What are the dental dam clamps used for?
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What is the rounded portion of the clamp that extends through the dental dam called?
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What are the 4 prongs that seat around the tooth to create the balance necessary to stabilize the clamp called?
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Why are winged clamps beneficial?
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What are posterior clamps used for?
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What are anterior clamps used for?
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How should the dental dam clamps fit?
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Why is it necessary to use a dental ligature?
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Study Notes
Dental Dam Overview
- A dental dam is a stretchable latex or non-latex material that serves as a barrier during dental procedures to isolate specific teeth.
Indications for Use
- Acts as an infection control barrier, safeguarding the patient's mouth.
- Prevents accidental inhalation or swallowing of debris.
- Protects tooth from contamination, providing optimal moisture control and visibility.
Types of Dental Dam Materials
- Available in latex and latex-free options.
- Comes in continuous rolls or two precut sizes (5x5 and 6x6 inches).
- Offered in various colors and can be scented or flavored.
- Thickness options include thin (light), medium, and heavy.
Dental Dam Sizes
- Precut dental dams come in 5x5 for children and 6x6 for adults.
Color Preference
- Dark-colored rubber dams are favored over light-colored ones due to improved contrast during procedures.
Dental Dam Frame Function
- A dental dam frame stabilizes and stretches the dam to ensure a tight fit.
Dental Dam Frame Types
- Frames can be made of plastic or metal, with unique advantages based on material.
X-ray Advantages
- Plastic U-shaped frames allow for x-rays without needing removal.
Placement of Frames
- The Young's stainless steel frame is positioned outside of the dental dam.
Otsby Frame
- Round plastic frame placed outside the dam for stabilization.
Dental Dam Accessories
- Dental dam napkins absorb moisture between the face and the dam.
- Water-soluble lubricants help the dam slide over teeth and through interproximal spaces.
Punching Holes
- Dental dam punch creates holes for tooth isolation, with a punch plate accommodating 5 or 6 holes.
- Hole sizes #1 to #5 correspond to different types of teeth: #5 for clamps, #4 for molars, #3 for premolars, #2 for maxillary anteriors, and #1 for mandibular anteriors.
Use of Stamp and Template
- The dental dam stamp and template mark where holes should be punched.
Dental Dam Forceps
- Used to place and remove clamps; the beak fits into the clamp's holes for secure handling.
- The sliding bar maintains a fixed position, aiding in clamp release by squeezing the handles.
Clamp Placement
- Beaks of forceps are directed toward the arch being isolated during clamp placement and removal.
Purpose of Clamps
- Dental dam clamps anchor and stabilize the dam during procedures.
- The bow is the rounded portion extending through the dam, while the jaws are the four prongs providing stability.
Clamp Variations
- Winged clamps offer extended features to enhance dam retention.
Clamp Applications
- Posterior clamps are used for maxillary and mandibular posterior teeth, while anterior clamps are for maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth, aiding in gingival retraction and visibility.
Clamp Fit Guidelines
- Clamps should fit in the cervical area below the height of contour, at or slightly below the cementoenamel junction (CEJ).
Safety Protocols
- Dental ligatures are essential for safely retrieving a dislodged clamp to prevent accidental swallowing or inhalation.
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Description
Explore essential terms and definitions related to dental dams. This quiz covers the material's function, indications for use, and benefits during dental procedures. Test your knowledge on this crucial aspect of dental infection control.