Ventilation in Dental Practice Design

When designing or upgrading a dental office, one of the most important considerations is ventilation. Dental surgeries require carefully designed systems that prioritise infection control, comfort, and compliance with regulations.

A mechanical supply and extract ventilation system is typically required, with a minimum of 10 air changes per hour (ACH) in treatment rooms. This ensures clean airflow, with supply air entering at high level and extraction located near the dental chair, maintaining neutral pressure relative to corridors. This setup is vital for effectively removing airborne contaminants generated during dental procedures.

Key Ventilation Requirements for Dental Offices

Air change rate:

CIBSE and ASHRAE building regulations recommend a minimum air change rate per hour (ACr/H) in treatment rooms. Proposed dental practice designs should seek advice from M&E consulting engineers who are familiar with these requirements.

Airflow direction:

Air should be supplied at high level and extracted at low level near the dental chair, creating a controlled downward airflow.

Negative pressure:

Treatment rooms may require slight negative pressure to prevent air from escaping into surrounding areas. This can be achieved with sufficient ventilation extract and, where needed, wall transfer grilles.

Dedicated exhaust systems:

For aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) such as scaling and drilling, dedicated exhaust systems are recommended to remove airborne particles effectively.

HEPA filtration:

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can be incorporated to further purify the air. In some cases, high-efficiency MERV filters may be used depending on the dental equipment.

Why Ventilation is Vital

Ventilation plays a vital role in dentistry, particularly when it comes to infection control. Dental procedures often generate aerosols that may contain bacteria and viruses, and without proper ventilation these particles can linger in the air, increasing the risk of transmission.

A well-designed ventilation system helps to remove these contaminants, creating a safer environment for everyone in the practice.

It’s not only about hygiene but also about safeguarding the wellbeing of both patients and staff. Clean airflow reduces exposure to harmful airborne particles, ensuring staff can work in healthier conditions while giving patients peace of mind during their visit.

Compliance with ventilation regulations is a key responsibility for dental practices. Most jurisdictions have strict requirements in place to guarantee a safe and controlled environment, making effective ventilation essential not just for safety, but for regulatory adherence too.

Benefits of Good Ventilation

Reduces germ transmission

Hygiene without a doubt is the most important reason for ventilating dentistry practices. Research has shown that well-ventilated spaces have lower rates of transmission of infections, and the more frequently air is circulated throughout a clinic, the less likely patients and staff are at risk of infection, not only from COVID-19 but also seasonal flu and colds.

Improves patient satisfaction

Fresh, well-ventilated air creates a welcoming atmosphere. Research also shows that good ventilation can reduce stress and anxiety, an important factor given that an estimated 36% of patients experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. Comfortable temperatures (around 23°C in winter and up to 25°C in summer) are also essential, and air conditioning may be advisable depending on the location.

Provides better working conditions for staff

Staff benefit from the same fresh air, reduced stress, and comfortable working environment as patients. Ventilation also helps control humidity, preventing issues such as dampness and mould.

Ensures compliance with regulations

The Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulations require all workplaces to be well ventilated. Dental clinics also have a duty of care under the Health Act 2009. NHS Health Technical Memoranda further stipulate the importance of maintaining ventilation systems in healthcare buildings.

Reduces pollutants in the air

By carefully scheduling aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs), dentists can help reduce the level of pollutants present in the surgery. Even if the number of AGPs cannot be reduced, spacing them at the beginning and end of appointments allows the ventilation system time to refresh the air in the room, lowering the risk of illness transmission.

Good ventilation in dental practices isn’t optional, it’s fundamental. It protects patients, safeguards staff, ensures compliance, and improves the overall patient experience. By investing in properly designed and maintained ventilation systems, dental surgeries can provide a safer and healthier environment for everyone.

At CDB we provide expert ventilation solutions, helping reduce airborne risks and ensure full compliance with regulations. If you’re planning a new surgery or upgrading an existing one, get in touch with us today to discuss how we can design and implement a safe, efficient, and reliable system for your practice.