The efficacy of rubber dam isolation in reducing atmospheric bacterial contamination.

A study was made to ascertain the efficacy of rubber dam isolation in controlling atmospheric bacterial contamination, when conservative pedodontic procedures are performed. There was a highly significant (p less than 0.001) reduction in bacterial contamination of the atmosphere, perioperatively, when rubber dam isolation was used. As the reduction in bacterial aerosols was greatest at 1 m from the headrest, the use of rubber dam would minimize significantly the inhalation of infective aerosols by dental personnel.