Dental Dams Explained: What They Are, Who They're For, and Why You Might Want One

Oral sex should be just as safe and satisfying as any other kind of sex, and dental dams help make that possible. That’s where dental dams come in. And if you’ve never heard of them before, or assumed they weren’t for you, it’s time for a rethink.

What Is a Dental Dam?

A dental dam is a soft, thin sheet (latex or non-latex) used as a barrier during oral sex to help prevent the spread of STIs. It's typically placed over the vulva or anus to reduce direct contact and protect both partners.

Who Are They For?

Anyone and everyone who enjoys oral sex and wants to play it safe. But especially helpful for:

• Anyone exploring oral sex on vulvas or anuses
• Queer couples
• Women who have sex with women
• Non-binary or trans folks
• People who want a non-penetrative way to stay safe

Using a dental dam can feel empowering. A clear, proactive way to protect your health without compromising intimacy. For many LGBTQ+ people, it’s also a sign that their experiences are being acknowledged in the conversation around safe sex.

Why Use Them?

Peace of mind
Reduce STI transmission risk (HPV, herpes, gonorrhoea, and more).

Empowerment
Take control of your protection and pleasure.

Inclusivity
Recognise that all bodies, and all kinds of sex, deserve safety and respect

Pleasure
Our EXS Dams come in a variety of options. Scented or unscented, latex or non-latex, soft, and ultra-thin, so you can stay protected without sacrificing sensation.

Research highlights that the lack of dental dams in public sexual health messaging and education, particularly outside LGBTQ+ circles is a key reason for their underuse. At EXS, we’re working to change that by increasing accessibility to dams and normalising their place in safer sex and pleasure-positive practice.

Making Dental Dams More Mainstream

Dental dams might not be mainstream (yet), but they’re a vital part of inclusive, empowering sexual wellness. Whether you're new to them or looking to expand your safer sex options, EXS Non-Latex or Latex Dams make it easy to get started.

Your Right to Choose Safer Oral

At EXS, we believe pleasure and protection go hand-in-hand for everyone.

Our EXS Dams make it even easier. They’re thin, flexible. No awkwardness, just safer oral.

“When we talk about sexual wellness, we can’t leave out oral sex or anyone who enjoys it. Products like oral dental dams give people real choice and control.” — EXS Team

At EXS, we believe in judgment-free sex education and access to inclusive protection. Adding a dental dam to your routine isn’t just about safety, it’s about saying yes to your right to enjoy sex on your terms.