What Is a Dental Dam and How Do You Use One? Your Quick Guide to Safer Oral

If you're new to dental dams, you're not alone.

These thin sheets of latex or non-latex material are one of the most overlooked, yet important, tools for safer oral sex.

What Is a Dental Dam?

A dental dam is a soft, flexible barrier placed over the vulva or anus during oral sex. It helps reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by preventing direct contact between the mouth and genital or anal areas. They can also be used for general hygiene purposes, or if someone is uncomfortable with direct mouth to gential/anal contact.

Dental dams are especially useful for anyone engaging in cunnilingus (oral on vulva) or analingus (oral on anus) who wants to protect themselves and their partner.

How Do You Use a Dental Dam?

Using a dental dam is simple:

Open the package carefully. Don’t tear the dam.
Add water- or silicone-based lubricant to the vulva or anus before any oral contact to increase comfort and sensation, and to help keep the dam in place.
Lay the dam flat over the vulva or anus before oral contact begins.
Hold it in place with your fingers or ask your partner to help.
Enjoy your moment.
Dispose of the dam properly, just like you would a condom. Each dam is for single use only. Wrap it in a tissue and dispose of it in a bin.

Tips for Better Use

Never flip the dam over during use or reuse it afterward.
Do not use oil-based products like Vaseline or baby oil, in place of a water or silicone based lube, as they damage the dams.
If you’re using scented dams, they can add a fun twist to oral sex while maintaining safety.
Remember, dental oral dams are single-use only.

Why Use a Oral Dental Dam?

Protect yourself and your partner. Dental dams can help reduce the transmission of STIs like herpes, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and HPV.
Feel confident. Knowing you’re protected lets you relax and enjoy intimacy without worry.
Inclusive safer sex. Dental dams are an essential option for people of all genders and sexual orientations who want non-penetrative safer sex options.

Dental dams might not be the most talked-about safer sex tool, but they are a simple, effective way to protect your health during oral sex. If you haven’t tried one yet, now’s a great time to start.