Rubber Dam Dentistry
You probably have no idea what dentistry performed under the rubber dam is. This is because only 4% of dentists utilize it for their patients in private practice. This is unfortunate. Every dental graduate MUST utilize the rubber dam to treat their patients while performing the clinical portion of their licensing examination. A New York dentist in order to better treat and isolate his patient's teeth invented the rubber dam in 1864. I am an attending dentist at a New Jersey hospital. I teach dental residents at how to perform dental procedures In varied disciplines. Every year I make it a point to explain that if they use the rubber dam routinely to treat their patients that they will be practice superior dentistry.
Reasons For Rubber Dam Dentistry
- The Dentist can better visualize the teeth to be treated.
- If the dentist can fully see the tooth the better the restoration will be better.
- Dryness in imperative.
- If the restoration is placed in a dry field it will be more durable and long lasting.
- The dam provides enhanced patient safety.
- The rubber dam helps prevent aspiration of foreign debris and inhalation of materials containing mercury.
- It also helps prevent accidental injury to patients' lips, tongue, and teeth from dental instruments.
- Procedures can be accomplished more quickly and with superior results.
- Rubber dams promote calming effects.
- Patients tend to relax more and often fall asleep while being treated.
Studies conclude higher quality of treatment is provided by dentists who utilize a rubber dam. Why doesn't every dentist provide rubber dam dentistry for their patients?
Using a rubber dam takes very little time to fit over a patient's teeth. A conscious effort must be made by the dentist to become proficient in using the dam. Personally, I would not have my teeth treated by another dentist without the use of a rubber dam.
Dennis G. Sternberg D.D.S.
Learn Whether Rubber Dam Dentistry Is An Option For You
Dr. Sternberg provides his patients from Freehold, New Jersey and nearby Jersey Shore innovative treatment with a rubber dam. To see how this treatment could be for you, contact our Monmouth County dental office today.
