With the widespread of COVID-19 around the world, the dental industry requires more than hand washing, wearing masks and social distancing. The close proximity of patients and staff require more safety precautions. The dental office environment, which includes the air, must be free of aerosols and splatter from body fluids.
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How do viruses and bacteria spread?
When aerosolized, microscopic organisms can linger more than 30 minutes in the air. If the aerosols are inhaled, they can transmit diseases that are infectious such as COVID-19. Virus and bacteria are spread by droplets, aerosols, respiratory fluids contact, touching contaminated areas or breathing in. The easy spread and transmission of these viruses and bacteria make dental office environments high risk.
In this article, we look at air cleaners and air purifiers options to help eliminate airborne pathogens.
Types of Air Cleaners/Purifier
- An air cleaner is a device that removes viruses, bacteria and other contaminants from the air in a room. They are designed to remove contamination and vacuum up splatter from bodily fluids such as plaque, blood and saliva.
- Dental air purifier along with extraoral suction system can scrub and remove viruses and harmful bacteria and prevent the spread of diseases.
- Air purification devices can trap airborne particles by size. When air is forced through filters, particles are captured by the filter. HEPA air filtering systems are a vital tool in cleaning and maintaining the safety and health of the environment of dental offices.
Attributes:
Dental office air purifier or dental clinic air cleaner can play a vital role in reducing viruses and bacteria in the air. The placement of your air cleaner and purifiers should be next to the patients. The dental industry has options to assist in providing a safe environment indoors. When choosing an air cleaner, review the below attributes:
Capacity of the Air Flow: The size of the room must be taken into consideration when purchasing a system. The system must be able to clean the air in the room quickly and efficiently.
Level of Sound: When air moves through a system, it creates sound. If the sound is excessive or if it is too loud, it will generate a negative effect for those near it.
Filtration System: Filtration require high-quality filter and a filter that last a long time.
Benefits
The benefits of dental office air cleaners and dental clinic air cleaner include the following:
Healthy Air: Air cleaners use in conjunction with HVAC can help reduce the spread of pathogens. Air purifiers are effective against certain pathogens such as flu, colds, SARS and measles.
Cleaner Air: Improve the cleanliness of dental offices and clinics by removing contaminants. According to the EPA, indoor air is two to five times dirtier than outdoor air.
Seasonal Allergens: Dental office air purifier help fight seasonal allergens to provide a safe and clean environment.
No Odors: Air cleaners trap airborne particles, such as mold, dander and pollen and help eliminate odors.
Slow Dust Buildup: Air purifiers can reduce and slow the rate of dust buildup and accumulation to keep your lungs healthy.
Traps Contaminants: Eliminate dander, dust and other airborne pathogens that can cause health and breathing issues.
Long Filter Life: Air cleaners can prolong the life of your filters by capturing contaminants and reducing the burden on your HVAC system.
Protect your patients and staff with portable air cleaners and air purifiers by reducing the risks of COVID-19 and other viruses and bacteria.
