By Taylor Irwin
Let’s face it: when it comes to sex, we all want to have fun — but we also want to stay safe. While condoms get a lot of well-deserved glory, dental dams often fly under the radar. If you’ve ever wondered what they are, why they’re important, or how to get your hands on one, don’t worry — I’m here to break it down for you in a way that’s informative, approachable and even a little silly!
So, what exactly are dental dams?
Dental dams are thin, stretchy sheets (usually made from latex) that act as a barrier between the mouth and someone’s genitals during oral sex. The purpose? To reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia. “Dental dams are used during oral sex, and if used properly, they can be effective against the transmission of STIs,” Cherlynn Taylor, a clinic assistant supervisor at the Counseling, Health and Wellness Services (CHWS), explains. So, while dental dams might not be the first thing you think of when planning a sexy rendezvous, they can make things much safer for everyone involved!
But wait — why should you care about dental dams?
You might be thinking, “I don’t need that, right? It’s just oral sex.” But here’s the truth: both oral sex and penetrative sex risk STI transmission. Certain STIs can be passed through contact with bodily fluids or skin, even if there’s no penetration involved. So, while you might not have to worry about an unplanned pregnancy with oral sex, you still need to worry about catching or passing on an STI. That’s where dental dams come in!
According to Taylor, dental dams are important for safe sex because they “are used as a barrier between the mouth and genitals to protect against the transmission of STIs.” Taylor added that in order to protect yourself from STIs, it is just as important to get tested. In short, dental dams allow you to enjoy oral sex without the stress of wondering what nasties you might unknowingly receive.
Now, you’re probably wondering: Who should use them? Are they really necessary?
The short answer: Everyone(*)! Whether you’re new to oral sex or have been doing it for years, using a dental dam is a simple and effective way to protect yourself. They’re particularly important if you or your partner have multiple sexual partners or aren’t sure of each other’s STI status. “Everyone should use dental dams to protect themselves from contracting STIs,” Taylor emphasized. And remember, even if you’re in a monogamous relationship, it’s still a good idea to use them — because you never know what your partner might’ve been exposed to before you met.
But before you throw your hands up and say, “I’m not using one of those,” let’s clear up a few things. Dental dams do not prevent pregnancy (so if that’s a concern, make sure to use a condom, too), but they are a helpful tool for safe sex. And the best part? Dental dams are easy to use, and there’s no need to be shy about it. They might feel a little funny at first, but after a few tries, you’ll be glad you took the extra step to stay safe.
(*) For those who are allergic to latex/condoms, please avoid dental dams.
Where can you get dental dams?
Good news: you don’t have to scour the internet or go to a specialty shop to get your hands on dental dams! CHWS provides them free of charge to students. According to Taylor, dental dams are available for free at the self-help table just outside the door at CHWS, along with condoms and lube. So, no excuses — grab one on your way to class and keep it in your bag for whenever the mood strikes!
To wrap it up (pause)
Oral sex is a fun and intimate way to spend time with a partner, but it’s important to remember that it’s not without risks. Dental dams are a simple and effective way to protect yourself and your partner from STIs while still having a great time. And if you’re at a loss for where to find them, just head over to CHWS and grab a few from the self-help table.
Now, go ahead and enjoy that intimate moment, knowing you’ve got the tools to keep it safe and sexy!