Dental dams are very important in preventing the spread of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. Dental or oral dams are small pieces of latex (polyurethane dams are also available) that provide a barrier of protection during oral stimulation of the clitoris, vulva and/or anus. Dental dams can be used to significantly reduce the risk of any vaginal fluid or blood exchange and prevent skin-to-skin contact. Infections such as HIV, syphilis, herpes and hepatitis B can all be passed through oral sex, and nobody wants one of those.
If you find yourself in a pickle with no dental dam in sight, condoms that are un-lubricated (or even better, flavored condoms) can easily be made into good substitutes for dams. Unroll the condom, carefully trim off both ends (tip and the elastic band bottom) and then cut down the length of the condom. This will give you a rectangular piece of material to use in place of a dental dam, plus you’ll feel like you should earn a scout badge for being so innovative. Do not use microwavable plastic wrap, as the “pores” in the material can allow some fluid through, which will defeat the whole purpose.
For those who believe variety is the spice of life, there are many options out there in terms of dental dams. There’s a myriad of different flavors, colors, latex and non-latex choices. A little bit of lube on both sides of the dam can result in a slippery and safe sexual experience (try a water-based flavored lube!).
In downtown Portland, check out Condom Sense, a wonderful retailer which provides a comfortable shopping environment for everything from dental dams to vibrators; they also offer confidential and private online ordering. Also, many family planning and reproductive health centers throughout Maine have free dams available, just ask!
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