Patient and Operator Experiences with Conventional Rubber Dam and OptiDam: A Randomized Clinical Trial

This study compared conventional rubber dam (CRD) and OptiDam isolation systems during routine dental procedures, exploring both operator and patient perspectives.

A total of 114 patients were randomly allocated to either CRD (n = 57) or OptiDam (n = 57) groups. After watching a standardized instructional video, procedures were performed by dental students at Umm Al-Qura University. Placement time was recorded, and patient comfort was reported by both the operator and patient using the visual analog scale. Structured questionnaires recorded demographics, operator preference, and patient satisfaction after treatment. Statistical analysis was performed at α < 0.05.

Both systems were applied within comparable time frames. However, 65 of 114 operators (57%) preferred the OptiDam over CRD (P < 0.05). The ease of use was the main reason for preferring OptiDam (31%), while availability was the main reason for selecting CRD (23%). Patients reported significantly greater comfort with OptiDam (1.40 ± 1.69) compared to (3.08 ± 2.39) CRD (P < 0.001). Operator-assessed comfort ratings were consistent with these findings: OptiDam: 1.40 ± 1.69 versus CRD: 2.96 ± 2.30 (P < 0.001). No statistical differences were observed between groups in relation to the operator, patient, and treatment variables.

OptiDam offers clear advantages in ease of use, operator preference, and patient comfort, supporting its value in clinical settings. However, competence in CRD application remains critical as it continues to serve as the standard method for dental isolation.