When using a rubber dam during a procedure, what is the main purpose?

The primary purpose of using a rubber dam during dental procedures is to isolate treatment areas. This isolation is crucial for several reasons: it allows for a controlled environment, minimizes contamination from saliva, and helps maintain a dry field which is essential for effective bonding and material placement. By isolating the area being worked on, practitioners can focus solely on the tooth or teeth involved in the procedure without distraction from moisture or other factors.

While keeping teeth dry, providing better visibility, and protecting the patient’s airway are important considerations in dental practice, they are secondary effects of the isolation provided by the rubber dam. The isolation allows for optimal working conditions, enhancing the overall quality of care.