What is the reason a dental dam is recommended for infection control?

A dental dam is recommended for infection control primarily because it significantly reduces the spatter of a patient's oral fluids during dental procedures. The dental dam acts as a barrier that isolates the treatment area, thereby minimizing the risk of exposure to blood and saliva for both the dental professional and the patient. By containing fluids within the dam, it prevents them from contaminating the surrounding environment, which is crucial in maintaining a clean and safe clinical setting.

Furthermore, while dental dams can be disposable, their primary function in infection control relates to reducing spatter rather than the aspect of disposability itself. They also do not sterilize the area or eliminate the need for gloves, as infection control protocols still require the use of personal protective equipment to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations. Thus, the main reason for recommending a dental dam is its effectiveness in controlling potentially infectious fluids during dental procedures.