An experimental approach to analyze aerosol and splatter formation in a dental practice

The flow velocity, trajectories, and size distribution of droplets produced during a dental scaling procedure using a Cavitron ultrasonic scalar (CUS) has been investigated by optical flow tracking velocimetry and shadowgraphy measurements. The droplet sizes are found to vary from 5 -500 µm; these correspond to droplet nuclei that could carry viruses. The droplet velocities also vary between 0.7 m/s and 1.3 m/s. These observations confirm the critical role of aerosols in the transmission of disease during dental procedures, providing invaluable knowledge for developing protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of both dentists and patients especially during COVID-19 pandemic.