In 1961, a German manufacturing company introduced the first dental suction system, revolutionizing patient treatment by enabling procedures in a horizontal position. This innovation not only transformed dentistry practices but also greatly enhanced the ergonomic aspects of a dentist's workspace.

What is dental suction system
A dental suction system is a crucial component in dental treatment that collects blood, saliva, and debris to minimize spray and spatter during procedures. It assists in preventing drooling, reducing the urge to swallow, and provides a sense of security by ensuring prompt removal of any airway obstructions. This can help alleviate patient anxiety and create a more comfortable dental experience.
Essential in any clinic or dental practice, a dental suction system is integral in minimizing cross-contamination risks between patients and dental professionals. By selecting the right suction system, one can enhance treatment outcomes, lower complication risks, and enable swift response during procedures.
The aspirator, part of the suction system, is responsible for removing accumulated saliva in the patient's oral cavity. The suction system comprises the suction handpieces equipped with cannulas, tubing, and the dental suction pump installed out of the dental unit. In some setups part of the suction system as air-liquid separator or amalgam separator are installed inside dental unit.

How the dental suction system works
Dental suction systems typically fall into two categories: wet suction and dry suction. 
In a wet suction system, there are no air-liquid separators within the dental unit, so both liquids and air are directed out of the dental unit to the external suction system. Although the suction aggregator operates in dry conditions, the system includes an air-water separator, which is more effective than the standard separators found in dental units, ensuring that no liquid reaches the motor. The liquids are directed to a drain located in the engine room.
On the other hand, the dry suction system requires that air-liquid separation is done within the dental unit itself using a centrifugal or sedimentation separator. This process directs all liquids to a drain situated beneath each dental unit in the clinic. While each unit requires a separator and drain for liquid separation, there is no need for drainage in the clinic's machine room, as only dry air enters the suction system.

Wet or Dry?
 Benefits of wet suction systems:
•    Implementing central amalgam separation is relatively straightforward with a wet suction system.
•    Wet suction systems tend to perform better with over three dental units.

Disadvantages of wet suction systems:
•    Installation of pipes is more complex with wet suction systems. Consideration needs to be given to the existing suction pipe layout in the clinic as new pipes may need to be added for a wet suction system.
•    The suction motor can only be placed on the same floor as the surgery or on a lower floor, not on an upper floor.

Advantages of dry suction systems:
•    Dry suction systems offer simpler line routing and provide flexibility in installing the suction motor.
•    Suction units in dry suction systems can be placed on upper floors as well.

Disadvantages of dry suction systems:
•    Installation of an air/water separation unit, possibly with an amalgam separator, is required within the dental unit.
•    Dry suction systems tend to be more costly with more than three treatment units.

Key Queries to address before making a decision

• For what purpose are the current treatment units primarily configured: for a dry suction system or a wet suction system?
• Is it feasible to convert the treatment units if needed? 
• Is it possible to install suction pipe according to need of wet system where downwards slope suction pump on the same or lower level are required? Consideration of the construction needs for the suction line network and the potential for conversions frequently influence the selection of the suitable system.

 
Cleaning and maintenance
After acquiring and setting up your suction system, it is crucial to prioritize its cleaning and maintenance. Daily cleaning with a disinfectant is essential to prevent unpleasant odours and ensure the system remains free of clogs and is functioning smoothly.
Furthermore, it's important to note the recent European regulations regarding amalgam separators. Since January 2019, all dental clinics are mandated to separate amalgam from the liquids drained via the dental suction system. EKOM has diligently worked to provide a straightforward and practical solution for amalgam separation, with EKOM dental suction system now featuring preparations for connection to various amalgam separators.

EKOM offers a diverse range of dental suction systems in their product portfolio, including options like dry or wet suction systems, with or without noise reduction cabinets, designed for varying numbers of dental units. Additionally, a mobile version is available for use at multiple workstations or as a backup to existing suction systems.
For guidance on selecting the most suitable solution for your clinic, always consult your service engineer.