Efficacy of extraoral suction devices in aerosol and splatter reduction during ultrasonic scaling: A laboratory investigation

Background. Ultrasonic scaling generates aerosols and splatters contaminated with microorganisms, increasing the risk of disease transmission in the dental office. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of extraoral suction (EOS) units in aerosol and splatter reduction during ultrasonic scaling.

Methods. Ultrasonic scaling was conducted on a dental manikin headset to simulate a scaling procedure. Water containing Lactobacillus acidophilus at a concentration of 107 colony-forming units per milliliter and 1% fluorescein solution was used as the water supply of the scaler. The scaling procedure was conducted with a high-volume evacuator (HVE) or the combination of HVE and an EOS unit. de Man–Rogosa–Sharpe agar plates were placed at different distances surrounding the dental chair. Filter papers were placed at various positions surrounding the oral cavity and on areas of the body.

Results. Bioaerosols were detected at every sampling site and could travel as far as 150 cm from the oral cavity. The combination of HVE and EOS significantly reduced the total number of bacterial colonies in the air (P<0.001). Dissemination of the stain was in the range of 20 cm from the oral cavity. The maximum contaminated surface area was at the 4 o’clock position from the oral cavity. The combination of EOS and HVE significantly reduced the contaminated area (P<0.05). The stain was also found on the wrists, chest, abdomen, and lap of the operator and assistant. The lap was the most contaminated area of the body.

Conclusion. EOS was effective in reducing the bioaerosols and splatters generated during ultrasonic scaling.