The use of a dental dam during implant placement and pertinent literature review

In some regions, endodontists are increasingly placing implants in their daily practice. Endodontists have been proponents of the use of a dental dam during root canal treatment. It is beneficial to reduce the ingestion/aspiration of dental instruments during implant placement. It may be beneficial to reduce the bacterial load during implant placement procedures because biofilm formation on implants can lead to failure. A dental dam may help reduce the ingress of oral bacteria during implant placement. This case report demonstrates the use of a dental dam during the surgical placement of a dental implant. A literature review is presented that includes the history and rationale for the use of dental dams during various dental procedures. It also reviews the risks of aspirating/ingesting implant instruments. The use of a dental dam during implant placement offers certain operator conveniences, while also providing a safer field with less chance of instrument swallowing. It is expected that the technique offers a less bacteria-laden operating field due to the reduction in salivary ingress into the surgical site.