Dental
Dams
A
dental dam is basically a small sheet of latex which acts
as a barrier between the vagina or anus and the mouth. Dental
dams get their name because they are used during dental surgery
such as root canals. Due to the possible infectious secretions
from both the vagina and anus, the dental dam is becoming
a more popular safer sex tool.
Dental
Dams come in different colors, shapes and flavors. The dental
dams pictured above are flavored "LIXX Dental Dams"
from the makers of Trustex brand condoms. Each dental dam
unfolds to be roughly 7” x 6” in size. Dental dams are usually
around $1.25 each but we provide them for free at Project
ARK. Another popular brand of dental dam is the Sheer Glyde
Dams, which are 10" x 6" and ightly scented. Allergic
to latex? Look for "Hot Dams," which are made of
polyurethane, or use non-microwavable plastic wrap (see below).
Only
use water based lubricants when using dental dams. Oil based
lubricans break down the latex but waterbased lubricants (such
as KY, Wet, Astroglyde, ID, Probe, etc.) are safe to use.
The
feeling of a dental dam is different than the feeling of the
lips or a tongue but it does not necessarily make it a bad
thing. Use plenty of water based lubricant and one partner
can play with the latex in his/her mouth to provide their
partner with a new type of stimulation.
Don't
have a dental dam? You can make a dental dam out of non-microwavable
plastic wrap or a condom. Microwavable plastic wrap is porous
and allows microbes across the barrier, so be sure to buy
non-microwavable plastic wrap. Or make a flavored condom into
a dental dam by cutting off the tip and cutting the condom
down the side. Unroll it and you have an instant dental dam.
