When it comes to running a dental practice, every tool plays a key role in delivering operational efficiency and patient satisfaction. 

But one piece of equipment that often flies under the radar? The dental suction system. 

Imagine performing a procedure without the familiar hum of your suction machine. Unthinkable, right? 

Choosing the right suction system can make or break your workflow. 

A good system keeps your patients comfortable, ensures a clear working area, and maintains hygiene.  

A bad one? Well, it can lead to downtime, frustration and extra costs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of suction systems, the latest innovations in suction technology, and how to choose a system that fits both your practice and budget.

Why is a high-quality suction system important?

Efficiency: a patient’s mouth can become a battlefield of saliva, water, and tiny debris. Without a reliable suction system to maintain a clear, dry field, every procedure would be messier, slower, and less effective.

Patient comfort: a high-quality suction system keeps your patients comfortable by preventing that awkward, constant need to swallow. After all, nobody wants to sit through a procedure that feels like an endurance test!

Hygiene: in dentistry, hygiene is non-negotiable, and a high-quality suction system is your first line of defence against cross-contamination. By swiftly removing saliva and other fluids during procedures, it effectively prevents the spread of germs, creating a safe, sterile environment.

The different types of suction

There are three main types of suction systems: wet, dry, and semi-wet, each with their own set of advantages and considerations. Let’s explore each type in more detail: 

Wet suction

Wet suction systems are perfect for practices that need some serious suction muscle. They use a combination of air and water to optimise fluid removal and maintain a clear field of operation. 

By integrating moisture into the suction process, they efficiently handle larger volumes of saliva, debris, and other fluids, far more effectively than a dry suction system. 

But remember, with great power comes great responsibility – expect high water bills and more maintenance!

Pros 

• Tried and tested: wet suction systems are tried, tested, and reliable

• Power: a higher negative vacuum enables wet suction systems to remove debris or heavy particles

• Lower set up costs: the initial set up cost for a wet system can be lower than others. 

Considerations: 

• Higher running costs: constantly dealing with water and other liquids, meaning dry suction units use a lot more electricity. They also consume large amounts of water, leading to significantly higher water and electricity bills

• Noise levels: wet suction systems run constantly and therefore, they can be extremely noisy

• Maintenance: due to the constant water flow, wet systems typically require more maintenance, including regular cleaning to prevent mineral build-up.

Ideal for: Practices that handle a high volume of patients and perform complex surgeries that require heavy fluid removal.

Dry suction 

Dry suction systems rely solely on air, working with an air-driven pump and filtration to create a powerful vacuum. 

While it might not handle huge volumes of fluid like its wet counterpart, it is perfect for practices that prefer a low-maintenance setup that gets the job done with minimal fuss. 

Dry systems save on water and are easier to maintain, but they might not pack the same punch in terms of suction power, especially in high-demand situations.

Pros

• Energy efficient: uses only air, eliminating water costs and reducing environmental impact

• Maintenance savings: less long-term wear and tear due to the absence of water

• Running costs: great for practices that prioritise cost-efficiency and easy operation.

Considerations 

• Suction power: has a lower negative vacuum and requires additional air water separators which can push up maintenance costs

• Set up costs: the initial set up of a dry suction system can be higher than alternatives.

Ideal for: Small to mid-sized practices where water conservation, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance are key priorities.

Semi-wet suction

Semi-wet suction systems are the best of both worlds, offering a hybrid approach, combining elements of both wet and dry suction systems. By mixing air with just the right amount of water, it clears away saliva, debris, and other fluids with ease.

This clever design minimises blockages and keeps the work area pristine, making your dental procedures smoother and more streamlined.  

With semi-wet suction, you get the high performance you need without the extra fuss – ideal for keeping things both effective and manageable.

Pros: 

• Water free: despite the name, when it comes to semi wet systems, water is not used to create a vacuum unlike wet systems. However, they are able to deal with all fluids from the dental chair

• Power and efficiency: combining a high airflow and medium negative vacuum provides optimal performance

• Built-in amalgam separation: semi wet systems have built-in amalgam separation functionality, making them compliant with current regulations

• Flexibility: depending on your surgery set up, you can install your semi wet system in the surgery or in a separate plantroom

• Practicality: semi wet systems are the most commonly used systems, meaning surgery staff are more knowledgeable when it comes to the day-to-day maintenance of the machine.

Considerations: 

• Maintenance: requires regular servicing as per the manufacturers guidelines. Not to mention, cleaning and maintenance is critical for longevity and performance.

Ideal for: Practices looking for a middle ground solution that delivers powerful suction without the high water usage or demanding maintenance of a wet system.

Key features to consider

When choosing a dental suction system, it’s vital that you align your choice with the needs of your practice.  

The right suction system should increase the efficiency of your procedures, while also contributing to a more comfortable and hygienic environment for both patients and staff.  

Here are the essential factors to consider: 

Suction power: a high-performing dental suction system should have enough power to maintain a dry field. Look for systems that provide consistent and strong suction to handle everything from routine cleanings to more complex surgeries. 

Noise level: noise can be a significant factor in patient anxiety and staff fatigue. Aim for a unit that operates quietly to create a more pleasant environment for both your patients and your team. 

Filtration: a top of the range dental suction system should include advanced filtration capabilities. This not only protects your equipment from damage, but also ensures a higher standard of hygiene by effectively removing debris, bacteria, and other contaminants from the air. 

Energy efficiency: with rising energy costs, an energy-efficient dental suction system can save your practice money in the long run. Look for models that offer low power consumption without compromising on suction power. 

Maintenance: routine maintenance can significantly affect the lifespan and efficiency of your suction system. Opt for models that offer easy access for cleaning and filter replacement. Systems with automatic cleaning features can save time and reduce the risk of blockages or breakdowns. 

Customisation options: every dental practice is unique, and your suction system should be adaptable to your specific needs. Customisable options, such as adjustable suction levels and interchangeable tips, can enhance the versatility and efficiency of your procedures. 

Portability and ergonomics: consider the design and portability of the suction unit. For example, if you need flexibility in your practice layout, a portable system can be a game-changer. 

Reliability and durability: In a busy dental practice, downtime can be costly. Look for systems known for their reliability and those that offer backup options. Some suction units come with dual motors or automatic switch-over capabilities to ensure continuous operation even if one motor fails. 

Compatibility with existing equipment: ensure that the suction system you choose is compatible with your existing dental chairs and equipment. 

Cost and warranty: while cost is always a consideration, it shouldn’t be the only factor. Weigh the initial investment against the potential long-term savings in maintenance and energy costs. Additionally, a solid warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.

The best dental suction systems

Smart systems

Traditional suction motors have a fixed speed motor that makes them notoriously inefficient: when just a small number of chairs are in use, the motor’s energy consumption remains constantly high. But Cattani ‘Smart’ suction motors always know what’s going on in the surgeries, thanks to Inverter Drive technology, and adjust performance accordingly. 

Cattani was the first manufacturer to bring inverter driven variable speed suction systems into the dental market in the 2000s and is the pinnacle of Cattani engineering. 

Cattani ‘Smart’ dental suction systems – Micro Smart, Turbo Smart, Turbo Smart 2V, Turbo Smart HP, and Maxi Smart – all incorporate inverter drive technology, designed to provide consistent, high-performance suction while cutting energy costs. 

Thanks to inverter technology, you can install parallel ‘Smart’ suction systems and have them ‘talk’ to each other. This way, you can expand your surgeries capacity easily and at the same time introduce built-in redundancy, or back-up systems, to ensure everything keeps running no matter what.

Built in active self-protection

Micro Smart and Turbo Smart systems are programmed to respond to situations and anomalies that typically disturb the operation of an aspiration unit, or even damage it. 

For example, a functional anomaly that could damage the machine, such as an overload of fluids or overheating due to excessive temperatures. 

This active self-protection feature will automatically adjust their functioning and performance to overcome the issue, returning to normal operation once the situation has corrected itself. Fixed speed aspiration units (without inverter and software control) have no such active self-protection, and in response to such scenarios can only stop to protect against damage. 

Performing like a small and large machine at the same time: small when it is used by one operator and large when it is upgraded to fit an expanded surgery. Therefore, offering consistent suction and even reducing heat output when the demand for the suction is low avoiding overheating. 

Thanks to the inverter, its electrical energy consumption is proportional to its use. Thus allowing a 50% energy saving if compared to fixed speed aspirators.

Wi-Fi connectivity

All Cattani ‘Smart’ suction systems connect wirelessly to the free Cattani SmartApp, allowing you to control your systems directly from your smart phone or tablet. 

Benefits of registration:  

• Wi-Fi connectivity allows for the practice to check the status of their equipment at any time 

• Engineers can remotely check and diagnose any errors should they occur on all Smart suction systems 

• Check and adjust the suction level depending on whether you are carrying out conservation, orthodontic, oral or implantology procedures  

• Check the amalgam container – the unit will alarm when the container is at 95% and 100% full 

• Check the event list for any alarms 

• Send a report to Cattani Italy and UK with details about the suction system for further technical assistance. 

Cattani’s ‘Smart’ suction systems are medical devices it is a requirement of the units warranty (as of 1st April 2022) to connect them to the SmartApp upon installation.

Protect your system – product warranties

Cattani ‘Smart’ suction systems are supplied with a 12-month warranty which will be increased to a three-year warranty upon registration on the SmartApp. An extended two-year warranty can also be purchased with the unit at point of sale to further increase the warranty to five years.

Cattani ‘Smart’ suction system range

Micro Smart

• Variable speed, single surgery suction system, suitable for all dental procedures

• Providing a flow rate of 900 litres per minute at 210mbar

• This system incorporates a digital display informing the user of the amalgam container level, operating temperature and hours worked for accurate servicing

• Micro Smart has three programmable vacuum levels: low volume for orthodontics and saliva ejection, medium volume for conservation, and high volume for oral surgery and implantology

• Micro Smart can be installed in the plant room or inside cabinetry within the surgery

• TUV certified 98.9% amalgam retention.

Turbo Smart and 2V

• Turbo Smarts are variable speed, with high airflow and high vacuum. Supplied for two surgeries but can be upgraded to four surgeries if required via a software upgrade

• Similar to Micro Smart systems, this unit has a digital display informing the user of the amalgam container level, operating temperature and hours worked for accurate servicing

• With a programmable vacuum level, Turbo Smart can automatically alter vacuum on demand and respond to any change in use from the surgeries

• Turbo Smart 2V systems are an ideal direct replacement for any wet-ring system. All the same features as the Turbo Smart with the addition of an extremely powerful Uni Jet 75 2V motor, producing 270mbar negative pressure for up to four surgeries

• TUV certified 98.1% amalgam retention. 

Turbo Smart HP

• High performance, variable speed multiple surgery system, ideal for conservation and surgical applications

• Turbo Smart HP units feature a pair of Cattani’s new extremely powerful, performance enhanced Uni Jet 75 motors. Providing high airflow and producing 340mbar negative pressure, for up to four surgeries

• All the same features as Turbo Smart systems, with a digital display informing the user of the amalgam container level, operating temperature and hours worked for accurate servicing

• Turbo Smart HP systems are an ideal direct replacement for any wet-ring system

• TUV certified 98.1% amalgam retention.

Maxi Smart

• Variable speed system, featuring Cattani’s extremely powerful Maxi Jet 2V LHT motor, producing 5000 litres per minute and up to 240mbar negative pressure for up to 15 surgeries

• Ideal as a new installation, as a replacement for an existing system, or as an emergency standby system for hospitals and larger installations

• All the same features as Turbo Smart systems, with a digital display informing the user of the amalgam container level, operating temperature and hours worked for accurate servicing

• TUV certified 98.1% amalgam retention.

Dentalez

Barracuda Single Wet Vacuum by Ramvac

The Barracuda single water rings pump offers proven reliability and durability. For enhanced efficiency, an optional water recirculator is available, reducing water usage by up to 80% while maintaining strong vacuum performance. Installation is straightforward, requiring just four steps, and the product is backed by a five-year limited warranty from the date of installation. 

Barracuda dual wet vacuum by Ramvac

Our dual dental vacuum system features two water-injected pumps housed in a single, easy-to-install cabinet. It delivers complete single-pump functionality, with the second pump available for backup support or additional power during periods of high demand. Designed to be quiet and compact, the system includes a durable, chemical-resistant brass impeller and housing for long-lasting performance.

Dürr Dental

Tyscor systems

The newly designed Tyscor premium range from Durr, featuring radial technology, are significantly lighter by as much as 50%, and offer potential energy savings of up to 75%. Additionally, the electronic control system offers better customisation and flexibility with more options for operational safety, reliability, and scalability.

Tyscor VS

The Tyscor VS unit is a compact and efficient solution for dental practices, combining suction and separation in one system. With its advanced two-stage separation system, it prevents secretions and blood foam from reaching the turbine, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operation. The unit is known for its quiet performance and corrosion-resistant design. When used in multi-room setups, it ensures effective pipe hygiene with a flow accelerator that helps minimise deposits and odors.

Tyscor V

The Tyscor V suction system is designed for both power and quiet operation. It can handle continuous use for up to seven or eight hours, directing collected materials into an integrated separation unit or amalgam separator. The turbine wheels, which generate the suction, rotate without contact, so only dry air reaches the unit. To protect against condensation, each model includes a condensation separator. The modular design also allows for a simple switch between dry and wet suction systems when needed.

Tyscor VSA

The Tyscor VSA systems offer a compact solution that integrates vacuum generation and separation into one unit. Pre-configured with hose lines, connections, and a control unit, they are designed for straightforward installation in any practice setting. These systems are versatile, whether for new setups or upgrading existing ones. By centralising suction and separation, they help enhance efficiency and can reduce or eliminate the need for extra automatic separators, potentially lowering associated costs.

Ekom

DO 2.1 (dry system)

The DO 2.1 dental suction system is specifically designed to connect to a dental unit equipped with a water-air separator. This dry suction system has no height restrictions for installation, making it highly versatile. Its compact design, along with optional features like a soundproofing cabinet and silencer, makes it an ideal choice for installation even within the treatment room. 

DO M

The DO M (Aspina) is a mobile, standalone dental suction system designed to function as a full replacement for the suction system typically found on dental units. It offers strong, independent suction that works well even during more demanding procedures. The hoses and holders, which allow for suction regulation, are compatible with a variety of suction tips. Waste is collected in an integrated separation vessel, making it easy to use without the need for a connection to a drainage system. Ideal for use across multiple treatment rooms, the DO M operates quietly and efficiently, making it a reliable choice in settings where high suction performance and patient comfort are priorities.

DO 3 (Semi wet)

The DO3 dental suction system features built-in air and liquid separation and is designed to connect with a sedimentation amalgam separator. It works with both wet and dry suction dental units. Available in Basic and Standard versions, the system includes a noise reduction cabinet, making it suitable for installation directly in the dental office. 

The system comes with a modern touch screen control interface, allowing users to easily monitor its performance, receive maintenance reminders and perform detailed diagnostics.

Conclusion

While your dental suction system might not grab headlines, it’s an essential component that keeps your practice running like a well-oiled machine. 

Choosing a suction system is far more than an operational decision, it’s a decision that significantly impacts workflow, patient comfort, and overall hygiene. 

While each system has its perks, the key is aligning the system with the needs of your practice. 

Think about what matters most to you – whether it’s maximising suction power, cutting down on water use, reducing noise, or integrating smart features. 

A well-considered choice will lead to smoother day-to-day operations for both your patients and your team.