Title: Module 4 - Dental Dam
Course: DEH 2530 Expanded Duties > Section: Module 4 - Dental Dam

Introduction

The presence of saliva in the oral cavity poses tremendous challenges to the provision of dental care for the patient. Most dental materials require a dry field for their application. The dental dam is a device that provides a moisture-free oral environment in which the dentist or dental hygienist can perform high quality dentistry. While the technique of applying the dental dam has its challenges, the enhanced quality of care provided with dental dam isolation more than compensates for any difficulty. The application and removal of dental dam is considered an expanded function in the state of Florida that can be delegated to a trained dental auxiliary.

In this module, we will learn about the indications and contraindications for the use of dental dam and examine the steps in its application.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- List the indications and contraindications for using a dental dam.
- Name the two basic types of dental dam clamps and describe the two ways they differ.
- Explain the purpose of the various size holes on the dental dam punch.
- List the characteristics of a well-placed dental dam.
- List the steps for dental dam application.
- List the steps for dental dam removal.

Readings & Resources

Robinson, Debbie, Doni Bird. Essentials of Dental Assisting, 5th Edition. Saunders, 2013. Chapter 10 and video

Secrets to Successful Dental Dam Placement-Basic Techniques online course at:

http://www.coltenelearning.com/member/classroom.asp?x_classID=1890

The following videos were produced by Coltene Dental, a leading manufacturer of dental dam material and instrumentation:

Coltene Dental’s Clamp Selection and Placement - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQnyFX_ABX4

Coltene Dental’s Posterior Isolation Technique - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFPNFJjse-c

Coltene Dental’s Anterior Isolation Technique - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8fxId-9uXw

Coltene Dental’s General Field Isolation Technique - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmy4W2syAO4

Coltene Dental’s Advanced Isolation Technique - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3BNm7wJLhc

Coltene Dental’s Wedjets Technique - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y98CpraMpVk

Assignments & Activities
- Post in the Module 4 Discussion board
- Complete the Module 4 Presentation Assignment
- Complete the Module 4 Quiz