The term coffer dam refers to a rubber membrane used to dry out dental crowns.

As many materials used in dentistry are very sensitive to moisture, it is absolutely crucial to use a coffer dam when applying ceramic inlays and/or plastic fillings, otherwise the quality of the work will suffer.

Root treatments should never be performed without a coffer dam. This picture shows an open tooth which is to be treated. A coffer dam clamp holds the membrane tight around the tooth. Also, a paste (shown here in gray) was carefully applied to protect the area against saliva.

A coffer dam also prevents swallowing or aspiration of instruments or particles. A further example of the uses of a coffer dam is shown in this picture of an amalgam drill, in which the amalgam shavings and fine amalgam dust are for the most part absorbed by the membrane.

Thanks to the coffer dam, the dentist is free to concentrate on the treatment area without having any saliva, blood or the patient's tongue in the way.

Coffer dams come in various designs, and the latex membranes come in various colors (shown here in pink). This picture shows a coffer dam set, consisting of the following: hole-puncher, fixing plier, clamps, frame and the above-mentioned latex membrane.