TYPES OF SUCTION SYSTEMS

All types of suction systems you can find in a dental clinic

There are four types of suction systems: dry, wet, liquid, and Venturi. The last one is the only one that does not implement the use of a suction motor. Let’s see how they work and when they can be used.

DRY SUCTION SYSTEM

This type of suction motor works only with air: you need an air/water separator placed between the dental unit and the suction motor, in order to drop the liquids in a drain pipe and allow the suction motor to work properly. The pros of this type of suction system are that can be installed on the upper floor of the clinic: a wet suction motor cannot suck liquids vertically, and it doesn’t need a drain pipe in the machinery room. The air/water separator must be installed on the same floor of the dental chair. It needs only a power supply to work.

WET (OR HUMID) SUCTION SYSTEM

This suction system also works with fluids: it can suck air, water, blood, and saliva. It is the most modern suction system: the dental unit can be connected directly to the suction motor, avoiding the implementation of an air/water separator. It needs a power supply and also a drain pipe to work. It can be installed on the same floor of the dental chair, or on a lower floor.

LIQUID SUCTION SYSTEM

It’s the old concept of the wet suction system: it works in the same way but also needs a water supply. For this reason, it generates a huge waste of water. Is preferable to install a wet suction system.

VENTURI SUCTION SYSTEM

It does not need a suction motor to work: it is a system that works thanks to the Venturi principle. Each suction cannula is connected to a Venturi valve that generates a depression that allows the suction. These valves work with air or water: in the first case the dental unit needs a bigger compressor to work, and in the second case a huge amount of water is wasted. Is preferable, if possible, to install a wet, or dry, suction motor.