###### Abstract  
Dental professionals face an increased risk of exposure to biological fluids, aerosols, and droplets due to close patient contact, which heightens the risk of infectious diseases. Rubber dam, commonly used in dentistry, not only isolates treatment areas but also reduces aerosol and droplet dispersion. Accurate orthodontic bracket positioning is crucial for optimal treatment, and isolation techniques like rubber dam and traditional methods are essential for ensuring precise bracket placement and bonding. This study aims to compare the effects of rubber dam and traditional isolation techniques on orthodontic bracket positioning using 3D digital models, while also evaluating the impact of these methods on the patient's chair time during the procedure. The study group (RDI--Rubber Dam Isolation) included individuals isolated with a rubber dam, while the control group (TI--Traditional Isolation) consisted of those isolated using retractors and cotton rolls. Digital models were taken from these groups before bracketing (BB) and after bracketing (AB). BB models were transferred to the OrthoanalyzerTM program for virtual bracketing and a virtual bonding model (VB) was created. AB and VB models were superimposed in the GOM InspectTM program in order to determine the accuracy of the bracket positions. Linear measurements were taken along the X, Y, and Z axes, while angular measurements were recorded on the XY, XZ, and YZ planes. There was no significant difference in deviation values along the X-axis between the RDI and TI groups. In both groups, the lowest deviation values in linear measurements were found in the Z-axis, while the highest deviation values were found in the Y-axis. In the Y-axis, it was found that the deviation values were higher in the RDI group for tooth numbers 32 and 33, and in the Z-axis, the deviation values were higher in the RDI group for tooth numbers 34 and 44. In angular measurements, it was observed that in the XY plane, the deviation values in tooth number 35 were higher in the TI group. RDI proves to be an effective method for ensuring accurate bracket positioning in orthodontic procedures when compared to traditional isolation techniques. Especially considering infectious diseases, the use of RDI is considered appropriate. R 2025 15 2552 2025 15  
context of the widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This risk stems from the unique nature of dental interventions, which often involve aerosol generation, handling sharps, and the provider being in close proximity to the patient's oropharyngeal region [4]. The most significant factors contributing to the heightened risk of infection for dental practitioners are their frequent exposure to saliva, blood, and the creation of aerosols or droplets during various dental procedures. In these procedures, the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 can occur through several routes, including the inhalation of aerosols or droplets from infected patients, direct contact with mucous membranes, oral fluids, and contaminated instruments or surfaces [5]. To reduce the risk of exposure to harmful microorganisms during dental procedures, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that dental healthcare providers (DHCPs) implement protective barriers on clinical surfaces and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, goggles, and gowns. These precautions are intended to safeguard the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth from potential exposure to infectious agents. Furthermore, the CDC advises using high-velocity suction and rubber dams to limit the spread of aerosols generated during rotary dental procedures [6]. A rubber dam, a thin, disposable rubber sheet, is applied around the tooth or teeth being treated, creating a barrier that isolates the treatment area from saliva. It is a standard tool in restorative and endodontic procedures and has been linked to higher success rates in these treatments [6]. In one particular study, [PERSON] et al.