What is the purpose of a dental dam?

A dental dam serves primarily to isolate the tooth from moisture during dental procedures. This isolation is crucial because the presence of moisture can interfere with the effectiveness of dental materials, such as adhesives and sealants, that require a dry environment to properly bond and set. By using a dental dam, dental professionals can maintain a controlled area that promotes better outcomes for restorations, endodontic treatments, and other procedures where moisture could be a concern.

While protecting surrounding teeth, enhancing aesthetic appearance, and facilitating patient communication are important aspects of dental practice, they are not the primary function of a dental dam. The utility of a dental dam in maintaining a dry field is fundamental to achieving successful results in various restorative and preventive dental procedures.