Practice safer sex! Use a dental dam!

Available free!

What is it?  A dental dam (or oral dam)  is a very thin, rectangular, "satin-like" piece of latex. It gets its name from the protective shield dentists use during oral surgery.

What does it do?  It is designed to help reduce the risk of transmission of various sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. It is used as a barrier during oral sex performed on the anus or vagina.

Dental dams are not 100% effective in reducing all sexually transmitted illnesses from vaginal and anal secretions. However, they may reduce your risk.

While the thought of using a sheet of latex during oral sex may seem a little weird, dental dams are easy to use and don't decrease sensation during oral sex.

How is it used?  It is very easy to use! Before you use the dam, rinse it off with warm water and dry it with a soft towel. Make sure the dam is free of holes or tiny breaks by holding it up to the light or running warm water over it. The dental dam is placed against the vagina during vaginal-oral sex. It can also be placed against the anus during anal-oral sex. A water-based lubricant may be applied to the vulva (or anal area) prior to the placement of the dental dam. Any other product or oil may actually degrade the dam, so make sure that the lubricant is indeed water-based.

When using the dental dam, make sure that only one side of the dental dam comes into contact with the genital area. If you turn it over and lick the other side, you are exposing yourself to whatever germs may be stuck to the dental dam. You may want to make a mark on one side so that you do not get confused.

Remember not to reuse dental dams. Doing so increases the chance that it will break. Never use the same dental dam if switching from vaginal-oral sex to anal-oral sex (or vice-versa).  

Where can I get them?  The Health and Wellness Center has FREE dental dams available. No questions asked! Each latex dental dam comes individually wrapped.  Please feel free to ask your health care provider if you have any questions.

You may also purchase dental dams in drug stores and over the internet. Dental dams may come in a variety of colors and flavors. 

Do not use these dental dams if you are allergic to latex.

Remember: we also have free condoms!

 

last updated 11/29/2006