Most of us know about condoms to protect ourselves from sexually transmitted diseases ( STIs ). But when it comes to oral sex safety, many people don't know much about what is called a 'dental dam'. This is actually a very important thing when it comes to sexual health . So, for the safety of you and your partner, let's talk about this in simple, detailed terms today.
What exactly is a dental dam?
Simply put, a dental dam is a thin, flexible sheet of rubber or polyurethane that is used for protection during oral sex.
The most important thing is that this is not a contraceptive. That is, it cannot prevent pregnancy. But it does help to reduce the exchange of bodily fluids that can cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
We know that you can use a condom during mouth-to-penis sex. But how do you protect yourself during oral sex involving the vagina or anus? That's what a dental dam is for. It's placed over the vagina or anus, acting as a barrier between the mouth and the area. This prevents the exchange of bodily fluids, but still allows for clitoral or anal stimulation.
How to use a dental dam correctly?
It's very easy to use. But it's important to use it carefully to avoid tearing. Follow these steps.
1. Remove from the package: Carefully remove the dental dam from the package and unfold it. Be careful not to damage it with objects such as nails or teeth.
2. Place it correctly:
- During oral-vaginal sex, place it over the vaginal opening so that it completely covers it.
- During oral-anal sex, place this over the anal opening so that it completely covers it.
- The dental dam should be large enough to cover the entire area.
3. Hold it in place: Hold it with both hands during oral sex to prevent it from moving around. Another thing to note is that you can apply a little water-based or silicone-based lubricant under the dental dam, i.e. on the vagina or anus. This will help it stay in place and make the sexual act smoother.
4. If it breaks or slips: If it breaks, breaks, or slips during the process, stop immediately. Remove the old one and start over with a new dental dam.
5. Dispose of after use: After using it once, throw it in the trash. Never reuse it.
Can a dental dam be reused?
No, absolutely not. A dental dam should only be used once. If you reuse a used one, you or your partner may be at increased risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.
What diseases are protected by a dental dam?
We think about STIs most often when we talk about sexual intercourse. But these diseases can also be transmitted through oral sex. A dental dam can reduce this risk.
Dental dams help protect against these diseases:
- Syphilis: This is a bacterial infection. If not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications. The first sign is a small sore where the bacteria entered the body (for example, in the genital area or mouth).
- Gonorrhea: This is also a bacterial infection. It can affect the genitals, throat , or anus. Sometimes, the disease can be present without any symptoms. So you can spread the disease to others without even knowing you have it.
- Chlamydia: A very common STI. Like gonorrhea, it can be asymptomatic. The infection affects the throat, anus, and genitals.
- Hepatitis: This is a viral infection that affects the liver. Hepatitis B in particular can be sexually transmitted. It can cause liver damage (cirrhosis), liver cancer, and sometimes even death.
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): This virus causes AIDS. HIV weakens the body's immune system. There is no cure yet.
Additionally, a dental dam also protects against the introduction of bacteria such as Shigella and E. Coli, which are found in feces, during anal-oral sex.
What are the things that a dental dam does not protect against?
Although a dental dam stops the exchange of bodily fluids, it does not provide complete protection against some infections that can be spread through skin-to-skin contact because a dental dam only covers a limited area.
Here are some such infections:
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): A very common STI. Some types of HPV cause genital warts. Other dangerous types can cause cervical cancer.
- Genital Herpes: A disease caused by the virus HSV-2. It causes painful blisters in the genital area. There is no permanent cure for this, and the disease can recur.
- Pubic Lice (Pubic Lice or Crabs): Small insects that live in the hair of the genital area. They bite the skin and suck blood. This can cause severe itching.
If you can't find a dental dam, how can you make one with a condom?
Dental dams can sometimes be a bit difficult to find in Sri Lanka. You can buy them at some large pharmacies or online. But if you can't find one, you can easily make one from a non-lubricated condom .
1. Carefully take the condom out of the packet and unfold it completely.
2. Take a pair of scissors and cut off the tip of the condom.
3. Also, cut off the rolled rubber ring at the base of the condom.
4. Now cut the condom lengthwise, from top to bottom, once.
5. When you open a cut condom lengthwise, you will get a square-shaped rubber sheet. You can use it as a dental dam.
Do's and Don'ts
Here is a summary of the most important things to remember when using a dental dam.
| Things to do (Do's) | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Check the expiration date before use. | Never use the same dental dam twice. |
| Use a new dental dam for every sexual act. | Avoid pulling or stretching the dental dam. It may weaken it. |
| Use only water-based or silicone-based lubricants with latex dental dams. | Do not use oil-based lubricants (e.g., baby oil, vaseline, lotion) with rubber dams. They can break the rubber. |
| Throw it in the trash after use. | Do not flush used dental dams down the toilet. It can cause blockages. |
| If you or your partner has a latex allergy, choose a dam made of polyurethane. | Do not use dental dams that are cracked, torn, or expired. |
If you have any questions about your sexual health, related diseases, or safety practices, don't be shy and talk to your doctor . It's very important for your health and that of your partner.
Take-Home Message
- A dental dam is a barrier used during oral sex to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is not a form of birth control.
- A new dental dam should be used for each sexual act, and never reuse one.
- Although it provides protection against infections transmitted through bodily fluids (such as HIV, Gonorrhea, Syphilis), it may not provide complete protection against infections transmitted through skin-to-skin contact (such as HPV, Herpes).
- If you can't find a dental dam, you can make one from an unlubricated condom.
- Practicing safe sex practices is essential for your and your partner's health and well-being.
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