How to prepare the site for the installation of a dental unit?

Whether we are talking about buying a dental unit, renovating or building a dental practice, it is important to know that any changes or additions made to such a space influence its appearance and dynamics. In today’s article we will discuss the installation of a dental unit. When we install such a device, we need to consider not only the dynamics and design of the space: it is important to know, broadly speaking, what it is all about, how to identify the connections of a unit, how to position a unit, etc.

How do we identify the connections of a unit?

• in the case of older models, the connections are under the block containing the spittoon
• in newer models, the connections are located under the patient’s seat
• there are also exceptions where the connections come at a greater distance from the unit and then a special connection box is fitted

To note:

For the most accurate positioning of where the pipes and cables for the unit will exit from the floor, remember to ask your supplier for the necessary information.

What are the dependencies of a unit?

Before pouring screed, tiling or flooring, don’t forget about the other aspects that influence the smooth running of a dental unit: water, compressed air, electricity, sewage, vacuum pipe and pump control. The recommended sizes are as follows: 1. Water – copper or PVC pipe, fitted with a ½ ½ tap; 2. Air – copper or PVC pipe fitted with a ½” female threaded valve or 8″ pneumatic hose (6 inside diameter, 8 outside diameter) with a pressure of 12 bar; 3. Current – grounded 2.5″ power cable; 4. Sewage – PVC sewerage pipe with a minimum diameter of 32, preferably 40; In the case of units prepared for surgical suction with vacuum pump you will also need: 5. Vacuum pipe – PVC sewage pipe with a diameter of 32 which will connect the vacuum pump to the unit; Attention! Next to the vacuum pump there will also need to be drains for draining liquids after separation 6. Pump control – 2-wire cable connecting the unit to the vacuum pump. 7. Evacuation – 50 PVC sewage pipe of PVC 50 for air evacuation after separation out of the room or if not possible bacteriologic filter for suction pump  

To note:

The tap on the water pipe should be installed as close to the floor as possible. If the water pipe is too long or the rest of the cables are too twisted, the cover will not fit. Therefore, all pipes and cables coming out of the floor must be framed in a maximum 20X20 cm grid. If you want to fix the unit in the floor (often not necessary) you need an accurate drawing of the pipes running through it. In this way, you can avoid any damage or cracking of the pipes when inserting the screws.