Dental Dam
What is used both at the dentist and in the bedroom?
The dental dam is a thin latex or polyurethane paper (of around 25×15 cm) to be applied on vulva or anus for reducing the risk of contracting sexual transmittable diseases during oral-genital sex (cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus), since infections as HIV, HPV, chlamydia, herpes, and gonorrhea can be transmitted also through oral contact. Its name comes from the dental field, because the dental dam was invented in 1864 by Sanford Barnum with the scope of isolating the surgical field during dental surgeries
The usage of dental dam in sexual contexts developed especially in the ‘80s, during the spread of HIV/AIDS. In a context where prevention was highly focused on male condoms, and therefore on penetrative sex, women and queer people, especially lesbian and bisexual, had to look for themselves for adequate protection tools. This marginalisation reflects a wider patriarchal and fallocentic sex culture that prioritises practises related to penetration and overlooks other forms of sexuality.
Despite its usefulness, the dental dam remains largely uncommon. This is due to its scarce accessibility – often it is not available in pharmacies or through other common purchasing channels – and its cost, which is higher than other prevention tools. All these factors, together with poor information, contribute to its limited use. Nonetheless, it represents a valuable tool for an informed prevention, especially if combined with a comprehensive sexuality education that takes into account the plurality of practices and bodies.