When isolating teeth using rubber dam, the general guideline is to isolate how many teeth mesial and distal to the tooth being restored?

The guideline for isolating teeth with a rubber dam is based on the area of the tooth being restored and the requirements for adequate visibility and access during restorative procedures. Isolating two teeth mesial and one tooth distal to the tooth being worked on provides a good balance between visibility and accessibility. This configuration helps ensure that the operator can see and access not only the target tooth but also adjacent teeth, which may be important for avoiding contact with cement or other materials that could affect neighboring structures.

Isolating two teeth mesial allows for sufficient working space and visibility toward the anterior (front) teeth or the point of origin of potential issues, while isolating one tooth distal provides enough room for movement and thoroughness in the procedure without being excessive. This strategy also helps to maintain a dry field, which is critical for optimal bonding and restorative outcomes.