What is the purpose of a dental dam?

A dental dam is primarily used to isolate specific teeth from the surrounding environment, particularly from saliva and debris, during dental procedures. By creating a barrier, it allows for a clearer field of operation, which facilitates effective treatment, minimizes contamination, and enhances the visibility for the dentist. This isolation is crucial in procedures like fillings, root canals, and certain surgical interventions, where moisture control is essential for bonding materials to properly adhere to the tooth structure.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary function of a dental dam. While airway obstruction is a critical concern in dentistry, a dental dam does not serve this purpose. Similarly, it does not provide protection against radiation, nor is it used as a guide for tooth extraction. Each of those concerns is addressed by different methods and equipment within the dental practice.