Facts about applying a rubber dam
Definition:
Aids to shield the treated teeth from the rest of the mouth
Indication:
Protection of sensitive areas from saliva, foreign bodies cannot be swallowed or inhaled, protection during amalgam replacement, ideal for dental anxiety
Duration of treatment:
varies (rubber dam remains in place during dental treatment and is then removed again)
With the rubber dam, we can offer you particularly safe and efficient dental treatment in Zurich. The rubber dam is a dental aid that has been used for more than 150 years to protect patients and teeth. It is a thin membrane similar to a surgical drape that allows us to dry individual teeth for the duration of the treatment and protect them from bacteria in the saliva. Conversely, the patient cannot inhale or swallow any foreign bodies, which is particularly important when removing amalgam to protect them from toxic mercury.
Frequently asked questions about rubber dams in Zurich
Is treatment with a rubber dam associated with pain?
In principle, treatment with a rubber dam is no different from conventional dental treatment. The application of the rubber dam is not associated with pain. The rubber dam is fixed in place with a metal clamp, which can cause a slight feeling of pressure. However, this will subside once the rubber dam is removed.
Can side effects occur during rubber dam treatment?
The rubber dam is a simple mechanical barrier and usually causes no discomfort. In rare cases, the gums can be injured by the metal clamp. We try to avoid such complications by applying them carefully.
If you suffer from a latex allergy, you should inform us before treatment so that we can use a latex-free alternative. Free nasal breathing is also a prerequisite for treatment with a rubber dam, as breathing through the mouth is temporarily restricted.
What is a rubber dam made of?
The rubber dam is usually made of natural latex. For patients with latex allergies, we have latex-free alternatives available in our practice in Zurich.
Advantages of a rubber dam
The rubber dam is a simple but effective dental aid for protecting teeth and patients. The rubber dam forms a mechanical barrier that prevents saliva from entering the open tooth during treatment. This is important, for example, with sensitive plastic and ceramic fillings or when fitting crowns. The dentist needs a dry working environment so that the tooth and material bond permanently. It is also important to keep bacteria from the saliva away from the opened tooth. If this is not achieved, trapped bacteria can cause an infection.
With the rubber dam, we in Zurich also have the option of protecting the patient in the best possible way. If foreign bodies or dust particles are released during dental treatment, they cannot be swallowed or inhaled. This is particularly important when dealing with substances that are hazardous to health, for example when removing old amalgam fillings.
When is a rubber dam used in our practice in Zurich?
We use the rubber dam in Zurich for dental treatments that require a dry and germ-free working environment, for example the bonding of composite or ceramic fillings. A rubber dam is also used for root canal treatments and when applying veneers.
The rubber dam can also be used to protect the patient, for example when mercury-containing amalgam fillings are drilled out or when we work with bleaching products and high-percentage disinfectants. When cleaning inflamed root canals, the rubber dam prevents bacteria from entering the rest of the oral cavity and the body's circulation.
How does the rubber dam treatment in Zurich work?
Dental treatment with a rubber dam is basically no different from conventional treatment. The dentist only needs to allow a little extra time to apply and remove the rubber dam. Your dentist will discuss with you in advance whether a rubber dam is necessary for the planned treatment and how it will be applied. If you suffer from a latex allergy, a latex-free alternative will be selected.
The dentist first checks which metal clasp is suitable for fitting. Depending on which tooth needs to be treated, we work with different types of clasps in Zurich. The next step is to prepare the rubber dam. To do this, the dentist stretches the latex membrane over a metal frame and creates openings for the teeth to be treated.
The rubber dam is now placed over the teeth and fixed to them with the metal clip. This creates a watertight treatment area in which the dentist can work safely. You can breathe easily through your nose during treatment. Once the dental treatment is complete, all residues are suctioned off and the rubber dam can be removed.
Contact
Dentist Zurich - finest smile
Seidengasse 20
8001 Zurich
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday
7:00 am to 8:00 pm
Phone
044 504 57 56