An innovative method of cushioning metal clamp jaws during rubber dam isolation

Competent rubber dam use increases both operating speed and treatment quality. In many instances, however, the application of rubber dam clamps may cause immediate and/or postoperative discomfort, and some dentists continue to use this as a "justifiable" excuse for not employing rubber dam. This paper reviews the iatrogenic potential of metal rubber dam clamps, and introduces a new cushioning technique that makes use of light-cured provisional material.