PDF Version - Glidewell Dental Labs

Rubber DaM
Haz rds
– Article and Clinical Photos
by Ellis J. Neiburger, DDS
Though repeatedly proclaimed as an indispensable
element of quality operative dentistry, the rubber
dam is seldom used in private practice. This is because
the numerous hazards and inconveniences for the patient
and dentist are rarely mentioned. These dangers and
more effective alternatives to the dam’s use in modern
dentistry are discussed in this article.
Since Dr. Sanford Barnum’s popularization in the 1860s,
the rubber dam has been used in most fields of dentistry. 1
With the help of ligatures and clamps, the rubber dam is
considered a benefit to the dentist and the patient. Skill in
its application is a required feature of most dental schools
and license examinations. 2,3 Many authors have expressed
its use as a symbol of high-quality, meticulous dentistry
and its non-use as an example of shoddy dental treatment
bordering on malpractice. 1,3
“Many clinicians and educators
have insisted that the rubber
dam should be routinely
used in quality dentistry and
medical-legal protection,
even though good dental
care (including successful
malpractice defense) can
be accomplished without it.”
44 chairsidemagazine.com