Features

The Invisible Dam company has introduced a transparent, patient-friendly alternative to traditional rubber dams.

• Flexible Fit: Custom-perforable barrier sheet for a precise seal around individual teeth.
• Hypoallergenic: Made from proprietary elastomeric silicone material for patient safety.
• Transparent Design: Clear visibility of intraoral areas, allowing for real-time monitoring.
• Durable and Tear-Resistant: Resists tearing and withstands rigorous procedures.
• Universal Fit: Adjustable to accommodate various tooth sizes and shapes.
• Enhanced Safety: Prevents aspiration and bacterial contamination.

 

The company Invisible Dam, LLC has introduced and patented, groundbreaking advancement in dental isolation technology, designed to enhance efficiency and safety during dental procedures while prioritizing patient comfort. Discover the benefits of the Invisible Dam compared to conventional rubber dams. You'll find innovative features such as transparency, tear resistance, hypoallergenic properties, flexibility, odor-free composition and chloroform resistance. 

Overview

The use of dental barriers for the isolation of teeth is a well-established, standard of care procedure in dentistry. The application, if well placed, ensures a safe and contamination free environment for various dental procedures. Traditional rubber (e.g. latex) dams were introduced in the 1860s to isolate the operative field during specific dental treatments. However, compliance among practitioners remains inconsistent due to the inherent design of these dams and challenges such as limited visibility, patient discomfort and the risk of allergic reactions to the materials used. Studies have shown that only 14.9% of general dentists consistently use rubber dams during endodontic or restorative treatments, despite their proven efficacy and safety in improving procedural outcomes and their universal acceptance as the standard of care.

The Invisible Dam company has introduced a transparent, patient-friendly alternative to traditional rubber dams. The Invisible Dam is the first and only barrier that is transparent, providing unparalleled visibility of the operative field during dental procedures. Additionally, the Invisible Dam company offers an option with micro-holes in the barrier, to enhance patient breathing while preventing debris or liquids from passing through due to surface tension. An alternative option is a barrier dam with an anatomical stencil of teeth printed on it, or template included in each box to guide dentists or assistants in punching holes in optimal locations. While these features are secondary, they can significantly increase utilization and compliance.

Benefits of the Invisible Dam

One of the primary advantages of the Invisible Dam is its' ability to enhance patient comfort. Traditional rubber dams can inadvertently conceal saliva that may accumulate in the posterior oral cavity, leading to an uncomfortable choking or gagging sensation that necessitates immediate suction. In contrast, the Invisible Dam is constructed from a proprietary transparent, hypoallergenic material, ensuring a completely visible field of the oral cavity and throat. This design provides a more pleasant and safe experience, reducing procedural stress for both patients and operators. This feature is particularly beneficial in pediatric dentistry and for patients with dental phobias.

Improved Visibility and Efficiency 

The transparent material of the Invisible Dam provides a clear view of the operative field, enabling more precise and efficient treatments. This transparency allows dental practitioners to monitor surrounding intraoral structures, such as the throat, pharynx, and tongue, for potential issues such as pooling saliva or misplaced materials without interrupting treatment to retract the barrier. Additionally, the flexibility of this design facilitates easy placement and removal of the barrier, thereby increasing workflow efficiency in dental practices. These improvements enhance the quality of care and improve the patient’s experience.

Advanced Material and Design Features

The Invisible Dam is made from a hypoallergenic, elastomeric silicone material, making it suitable for patients with latex allergies or sensitivities. This proprietary material is flexible, tear-resistant, odor-free, waterproof, and resistant to chloroform, ensuring durability and safety during procedures. The inclusion of micro holes enhances patient comfort by facilitating airflow without compromising the barrier’s protective integrity. Additionally, the optional integrated anatomical imprint of teeth outlines provides a clear guide for precise hole placement, reducing preparation time and ensuring an accurate fit around the teeth.

Enhanced Infection Control

Like traditional rubber dams, the Invisible Dam effectively isolates the treatment area, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination and aspiration of debris or misplaced instruments. However, its advanced materials and adaptable design ensure ease of use while maintaining a safe and isolated environment. The secure fit over the tension clamps or rings, which are placed on the tooth or teeth being treated, further reduces bacterial contamination, thereby enhancing overall patient safety.

Implementation in Dental Practices

Integrating the Invisible Dam into dental practices requires no additional training or learning curve compared to traditional dam applications. No new equipment or procedures are required.

Limitations of Traditional Rubber Dams

Traditional rubber dams, although effective, have significant drawbacks. Patients often experience discomfort, describing a sensation of suffocation, choking, or difficulty swallowing saliva while their mouths are open. The use of opaque materials with traditional barriers inherently restricts visibility behind the barrier.  The Invisible Dam effectively addresses these concerns, providing a superior alternative that improves both clinical and patient outcomes.