Praxistipp
Common mistakes and unexpected risks of infection during dental suctioning
The term aerosols and the associated risk of infection for patients and practitioners have long been known in dental practices; since the corona pandemic, often even to the general public. The most effective means of protection against infectious aerosols is suction with cannulas; a diameter of 16 mm is recommended. However, there are other points in connection with dental suction that should be taken into account for better protection against infection.
Three common mistakes increase the risk of infection during suctioning:
1. the use of suction cannulas without secondary air inlets
2. incorrect positioning of the suction tube during treatment
3. reduced suction power due to deposits in the system
We explain the resulting risks and provide practical tips - so that practice teams and patients are protected in the best possible way.
The reflux effect in dental practices
One risk of infection that is often overlooked in dental practices is the so-called reflux effect. This effect can be caused by the first two points mentioned above: the use of cannulas without secondary air inlets and/or incorrect positioning of the suction tube.
The term "reflux" describes the backflow of contaminated fluids from the suction system into the patient's oral cavity. This effect or reflux can occur if the suction cannula is blocked by aspirated soft tissue or if the suction tube is guided above the patient while the suction power is low*.
Short-term suction of soft tissue (e.g. cheek or tongue) cannot always be avoided. In order to prevent a reflux effect, the RKI recommends the use of suction cannulas with secondary air inlets. These ensure constant suction from the suction system, even if the tip of the cannula becomes blocked.
In addition, attention should be paid to the correct position of the suction tube during treatment in order to counteract a gravity-induced backflow of contaminated fluids. There are two simple measures you can take to improve infection control in your practice.
Infection protection through a strong suction system
However, infection prevention starts at a different level - often in the basement, as this is where the dental practice's suction system is usually located. Infectious secretions and aerosols can only be extracted effectively if the suction system is efficient. Correct cleaning and disinfection is a decisive factor for the efficiency of the system.
Without the right care, deposits can form in the lines between the dental chair and the suction system as well as in the system itself. Such deposits not only provide a breeding ground for infectious germs, but also reduce the suction capacity of the system, as the pipes become constricted in the long term. To counteract deposits, the combination of a mildly alkaline disinfectant and an acidic cleaner is ideal. In addition to the Orotol plus suction system disinfectant, Dürr Dental therefore recommends the regular use of the special detergent MD 555 cleaner.
While Orotol plus removes organic deposits (e.g. blood and saliva) and disinfects the system, the special detergent MD 555 cleaner effectively removes limescale deposits and prophylaxis powder. This keeps the suction system permanently efficient and protects patients and practice teams from infection. This requires regular use and correct dosing of the products. Further information on the use of Orotol plus and MD 555 cleaner can be found here.
*Source: Communication from the Commission for Hospital Hygiene and Infection Prevention at the Robert Koch Institute on "Infection Prevention in Dentistry - Hygiene Requirements, Chapter 5.2, published in Bundesgesundheitsblatt 4/2006 (Springer-Verlag, Heidelberg)
