Effect of Rubber Dam on Arterial Oxygen Saturation in Children

BACKGROUND: The placement of rubber dam has the potential to alter the airflow through nasal and oral cavities. Pediatric dentist should be aware whether the use of a rubber dam affects the oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) in children. To assess the effect of rubber dam on arterial blood SpO(2) in children of 6-12 years age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Totally, 60 ASA Class I patients of 6-12 years age, randomly allocated in two groups: Group A: Rubber dam isolation of maxilla and Group B: Isolation of the mandible. A pulse oximeter was used to detect SpO(2). To establish a baseline, each patient’s SpO(2) was recorded every 30 s for 2 min. A rubber dam was then placed which extended over the nose. Class I cavity and glass ionomer cements restoration were performed. The rubber dam was cut to expose the nasal cavities SpO(2) were recorded every 30 s for 5 min throughout the procedure. A two-way ANOVA test was applied. RESULTS: In both groups there was no significant difference in SpO(2) after rubber dam placement with nose covered or uncovered (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: There was no significant change in SpO(2) after rubber dam isolation with nose covered or uncovered in children of 6-12 years age.