Using Dental Dams for Safe Oral Sex: Protecting Your Intimate Health

Hey there, let’s talk about something essential—dental dams. No, we’re not discussing a trip to the dentist. We’re diving into the world of dental dams, a tool that can help keep your oral sex adventures not just pleasurable but also safe.

What Are Dental Dams?

First things first, what’s a dental dam? It’s not a tooth-related device; it’s a thin sheet made of latex or polyurethane that serves as a protective barrier during oral sex. Think of it as your shield against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when engaging in mouth-to-vagina or mouth-to-anus play.

Using Dental Dams: Dos and Don’ts

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of dental dam usage with some straightforward dos and don’ts:

Dos:

1. Always Use a Fresh One: Every time you’re up for oral sex, grab a new dental dam.
2. Check the Expiration Date: Be sure to glance at the package to ensure it’s not expired.
3. Inspect for Tears: Before using it, check for any defects or tears.
4. Wear It From Start to Finish: Put it on before starting oral sex and leave it on until you’re done.
5. Lubricate Smartly: Apply water-based or silicone-based lubricant to prevent breakage.
6. Storage Matters: Keep your dental dams in a cool, dry place.

Don’ts:

1. No Reusing: Dental dams are a one-time thing. Never reuse them.
2. Don’t Stretch It: Stretching a dental dam can lead to tears, so avoid doing it.
3. Skip Spermicides: Say no to nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide) as it can cause irritation.
4. Oil-Based No-Go: Using oil-based products like baby oil, lotion, or petroleum jelly can break the dental dam, so avoid them.
5. Toilet Trouble: Don’t flush dental dams down the toilet; it might clog it.

How to Use a Dental Dam: A Step-By-Step Guide

Using a dental dam is simple, but it’s essential to do it right to avoid any mishaps. Here’s how:

1. Carefully Unpack It: Open the dental dam package with care, ensuring you don’t damage it in the process.
2. Lay It Flat: Place the dental dam flat over the vaginal or anal area. For oral-vaginal sex, cover the vulva, and for oral-anal sex, shield the anus.
3. Hold It Steady: Keep the dental dam in place while engaging in oral sex. Using some water-based or silicone-based lubricant between the dental dam and your skin can enhance comfort and pleasure.
4. Be Cautious: If the dental dam slips or breaks during play, pause and replace it with a fresh one before continuing.
5. Dispose of it Properly: After use, toss the dental dam into the trash; flushing it is a no-no.

Types of Dental Dams

Now, let’s talk about the different types of dental dams. Most are made of latex, but if you or your partner has a latex allergy, there are polyurethane options available. Dental dams come in various sizes, colors, and even flavors. Some are unflavored, catering to diverse preferences.

Where to Find Dental Dams

You might not find dental dams as easily as condoms in your local drugstore. However, they are readily available online, making it convenient for you to access this crucial protection. Typically, dental dams cost around $1 to $2 each.

DIY Dental Dam

In case you can’t find a dental dam, don’t worry; you can craft one using a condom. Here’s how:

1. Open the condom package and unroll it.
2. Carefully snip off the tip of the condom.
3. Cut off the rolled rubber base of the condom.
4. Slice the condom lengthwise from tip to base.
5. Lay the flattened condom over the vaginal or anal area.

What Dental Dams Protect Against

Dental dams provide protection against specific STIs, reducing the risk of transmission. These include:

• Syphilis: A bacterial infection that progresses through various stages if left untreated.
• Gonorrhea: Another bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, throat, or anus.
• Chlamydia: One of the most common STIs, often asymptomatic.
• Hepatitis: A viral infection that can lead to liver damage and cancer.
• HIV: A virus causing AIDS, weakening the immune system.

Additionally, dental dams can protect against contact with fecal matter during oral-anal sex, reducing the risk of infections like Shigella and E. Coli.

What Dental Dams Don’t Protect Against

While dental dams are excellent for preventing fluid exchange during oral sex, they don’t guard against STIs transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. These include:

• HPV: A widespread STI with various types affecting genitals, rectum, and anus.
• Genital Herpes: Caused by herpes simplex type 2, leading to painful blisters.
• Pubic Lice: Tiny insects that infest pubic hair, causing itching.

Dos and Don’ts Recap

Here’s a quick recap of dental dam dos and don’ts:

Dos: Always use a new dental dam, check the expiration date, inspect for tears, wear it throughout, use lubricants, store it properly, and dispose of it correctly.

Don’t: Don’t reuse, stretch, or use spermicides. Avoid oil-based products and flushing.

Reference – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112388/

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