This document discusses methods for isolating the operating field in dental procedures. It begins with a brief history of rubber dam isolation, introduced in 1864. It then categorizes isolation methods as direct, including rubber dam, cotton rolls and gingival retraction cord, or indirect like local anesthesia. Various rubber dam application steps and armamentarium are outlined. Alternative isolation techniques like cotton rolls, throat shields and suction devices are also examined. The document concludes with recent advances in isolation products.