University of the Western Cape
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Overview of innovation

The risk of occupational exposure to aerosolised bio-contaminants (potentially pathogenic viruses, bacteria and yeasts) in dentistry and the dental office environment has been highlighted in the literature for many years. Removal of these aerosols would decrease oral healthcare workers' risk of healthcare-associated infections. Moreover, in light of the current global situation with COVID-19, it has become even more apparent that there is an even greater need for a device that is able to reduce the spread of aerosols.

The Dental Aerosol Suction Device (DASD) was invented by a dentist and a periodontal specialist. The specific design of the DASD aims to harness the dental chair's high-volume suction capacity to reduce the risk of aerosol (potentially contaminated with pathogenic micro-organisms) exposure to the dental working environment. The key features include ease of use to reduce the spread of aerosols generated during procedures utilising routinely used instruments/equipment such as ultrasonic scalers and fast handpieces. Additionally, this device is more cost-effective than other similar products currently in the international market.

Type of Intellectual Property protection
Design - Aesthetic
Design - Functional
Innovation Opportunity Type
Distribution
Manufacturing
Partnership
Industry
Human health and social work activities
Medical Devices
Human health activities
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 7 – Refined prototype created