What is the recommended practice regarding the saliva ejector?

The recommended practice regarding the saliva ejector is to instruct patients not to tightly close their lips around it. This guidance is important for several reasons.

When patients tightly close their lips around the saliva ejector, it can create a seal that may hinder the proper functioning of the device. The saliva ejector is designed to provide continuous suction to remove excess saliva and fluids from the mouth during dental procedures. A tight seal can lead to decreased airflow, which can result in ineffective suction and can even create a risk of backflow, where fluids could potentially move back towards the patient's mouth instead of being removed.

Instructing patients to gently rest their lips on the saliva ejector allows for optimal airflow and suction, ensuring that it operates effectively and that the patient's comfort is maintained. This also helps to minimize the risk of gagging or discomfort that can occur if the device is used incorrectly.

Overall, this practice supports not only the efficiency of dental procedures but also enhances patient safety and comfort during treatment.