Ergonomic strengths of different suction heads
Published 21.03.2025
Primarily, the suction systems are either attached to the dental unit or placed in a cabinet behind it. The suction holder can be fixed in the cabinet or positioned at the end of a telescopic arm. The first option is not the most ergonomic solution, as can be inferred from the following image.
Cabinet-mounted suction head
Let’s examine the placement and movement range of the suction holder from an ergonomic perspective. First, we will review the suction holder located in a cabinet and equipped with a telescopic arm. Its range of motion effectively allows for left-right adjustments and facilitates solo work.
Minimal wrist movement
The suction holder can be moved to a position that supports the workflow and minimizes unnecessary movement when reaching for the suction tip. A particularly important aspect is the minimal wrist movement in relation to the patient’s mouth. The range of motion is optimized and does not require changes in working posture. Additionally, the suction hoses do not get in the way unnecessarily.
Unit-mounted suction head
The machine-mounted suction head enables various working possibilities. A user interface that allows comprehensive control of the device can be integrated into a larger suction head, making the dental assistant's work more straightforward.
The machine-mounted suction head also allows for the standard use of four instruments.
The height adjustment of the suction stand can be similar to that of a cabinet, equipped with a telescopic arm, or a statically adjustable option in the vertical direction.
Final thoughts
In models without a spittoon, water line flushing and disinfection are carried out using an easy-to-use flushing cup, which is attached to the suction hose during cleaning.
These are, of course, matters of preference—what one is used to and whether different options have been tested. The cabinet-mounted telescopic system is very common in Finland, for example, and has also gradually gained popularity in Central Europe.
