Aerosol generation and control in the dental operatory: An in vitro spectrometric study of typical clinical setups

Dental turbines and scalers, used every day in dental operatories, feature built-in water spray that generates considerable amounts of aerosol. The problem is it not exactly known how much. Since the outbreak COVID-19, several aerosol safety recommendations have been issued—based on little empirical evidence, as almost no data are available exact concentrations generated during treatment. Similarly, about differences efficacy different commercially control systems to reduce in-treatment load. In this vitro study, we spectrometry explore these questions. time-dependent effect conventional airing was also studied. Everyday patient treatment situations were modeled. test setups defined by applied instrument its direction (high-speed turbine with direct/indirect airspray or ultrasonic scaler indirect airspray) system (the high-volume evacuator a lately introduced exhaustor). Two parameters analyzed: total number concentration entire measurement range spectrometer within 60 384 nm range. results suggest type significantly influence resulting concentrations. Aerosol generation easily controlled. As for high-speed turbine, efficiency might depend scenarios where frequently directed toward air operatory most difficult control. tested did differ their efficiency, but study could provide conclusive respect. With through windows standard fan, period at least 15 minutes between treatments recommended.