Dental dams are latex or polyurethane sheets used between the mouth and vagina or anus during oral sex. Ready-to-use dental dams can be purchased online. Bonus tip: external condoms can be cut in half (lengthwise) and used as a dental dam!
| DO use a new latex or polyurethane dental dam every time you have oral sex. | DON’T reuse a dental dam. |
| DO read the package and check the expiration date. | DON’T stretch a dental dam, as this can cause it to tear. |
| DO make sure there are no tears or defects. | DON’T use nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide), which can cause irritation. |
| DO put on before starting oral sex and keep it on until finished. | DON’T use oil-based products like baby oil, lotion, petroleum jelly, or cooking oil because they will cause the dental dam to break. |
| DO use water-based or silicone-based lubricant to prevent breakage. | DON’T flush dental dams down the toilet as they may clog it. |
| DO store dental dams in a cool, dry place. |