Study of aerosol dispersion and control in dental practice

Objectives In this study, we investigated the dispersion patterns of aerosols and droplets in dental clinics and developed a suction device to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing aerosols during dental procedures. Materials and methods Firstly, the continuous images of oral aerosols and droplets were photographed with a high-speed camera, and the trajectories of these particles were recognized and processed by Image J to determine key parameters affecting particle dispersion: diffusion velocity, distance, and angle. Secondly, based on the parameter data, the flow field of aerosol particles around the oral cavity was simulated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and the flow field under adsorption conditions was simulated to demonstrate the aerodynamic characteristics and capture efficiencies of the single-channel and three-channel adsorption ports at different pressures. Finally, according to the simulated data, a three-channel suction device was developed, and the capture efficiency of the device was tested by the fluorescein tracer method. Results The dispersion experimental data showed that aerosol particles’ maximum diffusion velocity, distance, and angle were 6.2 m/s, 0.55 m, and 130°, respectively. The simulated aerosol flow-field distribution was consistent with the aerosol dispersion patterns. The adsorption simulation results showed that the outlet flow rate of single-channel adsorption was 184.5 L/s at − 350 Pa, and the aerosol capture efficiency could reach 79.4%. At − 350 Pa and − 150 Pa, the outlet flow rate of three-channel adsorption was 228.9 L/s, and the capture efficiency was 99.23%. The adsorption experimental data showed that the capture efficiency of three-channel suction device was 97.71%. Conclusions A three-channel suction device was designed by simulations and experiments, which can capture most aerosols in the dental clinic and prevent them from spreading. Clinical relevance Using three-channel suction devices during oral treatment effectively reduces the spread of oral aerosols, which is essential to prevent the spread of epidemics and ensure the health and safety of patients and dental staff.