Give dental dams the respect they deserve

Be honest, have you ever seen or heard of a dental dam? It’s ok if you haven’t. Most people have never used one, but take a note now. Dental dams are the go-to sexually transmitted infection (STI) protection for oral sex, whether that’s on a vulva or an anus. A regular condom works for oral sex on a penis.

Why don’t more people know about dental dams? Well, it’s the patriarchy, duh. Sex ed has historically been super heteronormative. Because dental dams don’t fit into the penis-in-vagina binary, people have overlooked them for a long time.

What is a dental dam?

Dental dams are thin, rectangular sheets usually made of latex (there are also latex-free dental dam options). You or your partner holds the dental dam directly on the vulva or anus, wherever you’re receiving oral pleasure.

Yes, a dental dam looks remarkably like a fruit roll-up. And, you can get them in some fun fruit flavors. Dental dams protect both the giver and the receiver from STIs like human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

Do I need to use a dental dam?

If you want to prevent the transmission of STIs when you’re getting or giving oral, then yes, dental dam protection is for you. Using a dental dam doesn’t completely eliminate the possibility of transmitting some STIs. Viruses like herpes and HPV can be transferred through skin-to-skin contact, so body parts that aren’t covered up by a barrier method won’t be protected. Still, using a dental dam reduces the chance of skin-to-skin contact and fluid transfer. Dental dams can also be used to cover your nipples!

Can you feel everything when you use a dental dam?

Some people say that the feeling of oral isn’t the same with a dental dam. Other people say it’s a totally different but very good feeling. Apply loads of lube on the side of the dental dam touching your skin for a slippery feeling.

Is it hard to use a dental dam?

Using a dental dam for oral sex requires that one partner uses their hands to hold it in place. This could be tricky, or it could be kinky. If you just can’t keep your hands still, some people enjoy latex underwear that’s designed to be used as a dental dam. For hands-free fun, you can order dental dam underwear/dental dam panties, sold under the brand name Lorals. Just keep in mind that Lorals are made of latex, so they’re not the right pick if you have a latex allergy.

Where can I buy dental dams?

Keeping a dental dam on your person is a great plan (just don’t leave it in a hot car because the heat can damage it). It can be hard to find a dental dam in the heat of the moment—not all stores carry them. Your local sex toy shop is a good bet, though, and of course you can find them online if you know what you’re looking for. The brand Glyde offers dental dams in different flavors.

Can I make a DIY dental dam condom?

Yes, you can make your own dental dam alternative out of a condom or plastic wrap. An FDA-approved dental dam is going to be a safer option. But a DIY dental dam provides a safer sex barrier between a mouth and a body for cunnilingus (putting your tongue and mouth on a vulva) and rimming (putting your tongue and mouth on an anus).

If you have a condom handy, open the package and roll it open. Then, cut off either end of the condom (the tip and the ring), and cut down one side of the condom. You should be left with a square piece of material to put where you like.

Some people use plastic wrap, like Saran Wrap, as a dental dam in a pinch. There’s no clinical evidence that DIY dental dams work as well as FDA-cleared ones. That said, some people feel that any barrier is better than none—just know that a real dental dam is the more reliable option.

Plus, you can cut them to the size and shape that works for you. Some people would rather use plastic wrap than nothing at all.

How to use a dental dam

1. Open the package and check the dental dam for tears. If there’s a tear, open a new one and try again.
2. Add water-based lube! It’s way more fun! Oil-based lubricants can make the dam less effective.
3. Don’t stretch or reuse a dental dam. Get a new one every time.
4. Have fun!