A Dentist is always the most prone professional person for aerosols transmitted infections including viruses like Ebola, SARS, COVID, influenza, etc. In spite of taking maximum protection like a face mask, head cap, gloves, and apron, he is still prone to aerosol transmitted viral infections.
Before finalizing an external oral suction one must understand its mechanism. An external oral suction unit has two main parts.
Suction unit: Suction
Unit arm length must be long enough to provide enough space to work
together with assistant. 4 hand dentistry needs at least 1.5 meters or
above suction arm length. Heavy power above 1000 watt gives more power
to suck aerosols.
Sterilizer unit (Like Air Purifier): To disinfect the aerosols sucked, a good extra oral suction need 4 main filter mechanism. Primary filter+ UV light+ Plasm Ions + HEPA filter.
Tips for choosing a mobile aerosol suction unit
Don’t be misled by the number of negative pressure. Check the rated airflow (CFM or L/min). The greater airflow rate, the higher suction air velocity and dynamic pressure.
Choose a device that uses a HEPA filter,the gold standard for aerosol suction units to capture the airbone.
Make sure there are UVC lights for additional disinfection.
Find a product with good after-sale support and reputable manufacturer.
Figure out you want a more flexible suction arm or the one can last longer and better look.
Look at noise levels (listed in decibels) in product specs. Depending on where you’re using your aerosol suction unit, you may want a quieter device. Check if the motor speed can be adjusted to lower the noise level.
Calculate the aerosol suction unit’s ongoing maintenance and electricity costs so you can budget beyond your initial purchase.
Skip the bonus features, such as app integration, foot control and plasma, unless money is no object.
Figure out where you want to place your aerosol suction unit so you can choose the right size for your space.
What to look for in an aerosol suction unit
You will find all kinds of
portable aerosol suction system or external suction unit in the market
this year. You might want to know how to find a right one for your
office. We’ve assembled a list of things to consider when searching for
an aerosol suction unit to fit in your office..
1. Suction power– should we look at motor power (watts), pressure rating or airflow rate?
2. Cost of Replacement Parts:
Find out what it costs to replace filters and other parts. Make sure it is easy to access the filter chamber. Do you want to pay extra for technician to do maintenance?
3. Electricity Costs:
Know how much it costs to run an electronic air cleaner.
Comparison of a 200 Watt High Efficiency motor and 1800 Watt motor
The electricity cost is $0.15/kWh * 1800 hrs * (1.8-0.2) = $432 with assumption of 1800hr run time and utility rate at 0.15/kWh
4. Warranty:
Learn about the warranty
available for the unit you are considering. Normally the cosmetic and
consumables are not covered in Warranty.
5.Indicator Lights or alarm for Filter Changes:
Some units have them. It’s not necessary, but is kind of convenient.
6.Noise Level:
You want this to be as low as
possible, but realize some of the high capacity aerosol suction units do
make noise. Working in a noisy environment for a long time can be
painful. Also make sure the unit come with speed adjustment function to
lower the noise level if necessary.
7.Multi-layer Filters:
Does the unit have a pre-filter and middle layer of filter to increase HEPA filter efficiency? A pre-filter and middle layer filter can make the HEPA filter last longer with better efficiency.
Size and Look of the Aerosol
suction unit: Some aerosol suction units are big and ugly. Others are
sleek and pleasing to the eye.
8.Choice of suction duct/pipe
Some people like the convenience of flexible duct. But many others prefer the better looking and sturdy aluminum arm. Based on our observation and experience, the flexible duct doesn’t last as long as the aluminum arm/pipe.