It’s time to talk about dental dams. Those little squares of safety remain to this day underused and hard to find, but overall SO underrated. Though they aren’t exactly the hottest topic, or the most high-tech invention in the world of sex, they are still great tools for the prevention of STIs during oral sex, and can be fun to use.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro, or completely new to dental dams, here’s everything you need to know!
WHAT IS a Dental Dam?
Dental dams were actually originally used by dentists during procedures to isolate teeth and keep them dry – which is where they get their name. It is a little square of latex which you spread over the anus or vulva during oral. Like a condom, it helps to build a protective barrier between you and your partner. This is key in the prevention of infections that can spread through skin-to-skin and fluid contact, including HPV, syphilis, gonorrhoea and herpes.
So, they are definitely a queer girlie’s best friend when it comes to health protection – go out there and have fun by all means, but don’t forget to put your safety first!
WHY HAVEN’T I HEARD ABOUT THIS?
You’re probably thinking that this would have been cool to hear about in your sex ed classes alongside discussions about barrier methods. The sad reality is that dental dams rarely get talked about in schools or in mainstream media, likely because much of sexual health education centres around condoms and straight sex. Usually queer people are just left wondering, “What about me?!”. Especially in some queer dynamics where penetration is not possible or less straightforward, the lack of focus on alternative methods of safely pleasuring your partner is upsetting.
As conversations about queer sexual health are increasing, dental dams can finally have their time to shine. And it’s all thanks to a new generation of queer women and other folks who are talking more openly about their sexual experiences, and how to have safer gay sex.
WHO CAN USE DENTAL DAMS?
Literally anyone engaging in oral sex involving vulva-to-mouth or anal-to-mouth contact can use dental dams! However, they’re a great tool for queer women in particular, especially if you have multiple sexual partners or are just looking to add an extra layer of safety. There’s a myth that people with vaginas who exclusively have sex with other people with vaginas are at low risk for STIs, but the truth is that infections can still very much spread through oral sex. They’re also great for people who just generally want to improve their personal hygiene.
HOW DO I USE A DENTAL DAM?
Using a dental dam isn’t complicated at all, but the first time can be a little nerve-wracking and difficult. Follow the steps below to learn how to safely use this amazing invention!
1. Unwrap the packet carefully. Dental dams are really similar to condoms in that you should be careful not to tear it when opening.
2. Position it correctly by laying it flat over your partner’s vulva or anus, ensure you’ve covered the area fully.
3. You or your partner should hold it firmly in place so that it doesn’t slip. A little bit of water-based lube can be used on the skin side to prevent friction as well.
4. Enjoy the experience! Whilst it may feel quite strange at first, have fun with it! Remember to communicate with your partner about what is comfortable for both of you; it will make the experience so much more enjoyable. Practice makes perfect – if you like using them, it will quickly become second nature.
WHERE CAN I BUY THEM?
They are sadly very hard to find in normal shops or pharmacies and even on-campus sexual health centres. The most convenient place to get them is definitely online – BUT make sure not to confuse them with femidoms, which are essentially reverse condoms and a good alternative for those having trouble using other barrier methods.
ARE THERE FLAVOURED DENTAL DAMS?
I know we were all thinking it, and thankfully, the answer is yes! Like condoms and lube, they come in a range of flavours, like strawberry or vanilla – I’ve even come across banana-flavoured ones before! They are for those who wish to mask the taste of latex, or just generally want to add that extra layer of sensation and pleasure.
CONCLUSION
Utilising the simplicity of the dental dam is such an easy way to increase safety during oral sex. And honestly there is something so sexy about knowing you and your partner have that little extra layer of protection. Definitely consider giving them a try – they could be your new go-to!