Dental Compressors, Vacuum and Utilities
DEN 105 equips future service technicians with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to install, maintain, and repair critical dental utility equipment. The curriculum emphasizes the unique requirements of dental environments, including the importance of clean, dry air, efficient vacuum performance, and proper waste management. Students will learn about the internal workings of oil-free compressors, various air dryer technologies, and the mechanics of dental vacuum systems, including wet and dry designs. Attention is also given to the regulatory aspects and functional role of amalgam separators. Practical, hands-on lab sessions are integrated throughout the course to reinforce theoretical concepts and develop proficiency in diagnostic techniques, preventive maintenance procedures, and basic plumbing principles relevant to dental equipment.
InstructorJacob CalhounPrerequisites
Course outline
Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.
Syllabus
["Week 1: Introduction to Dental Utilities & Safety","Week 2: Principles of Air Compression & Oil-Free Compressor Types","Week 3: Oil-Free Compressor Components & Operation","Week 4: Lab: Compressor System Inspection & Basic Troubleshooting","Week 5: Air Treatment: Dryers and Filtration Systems","Week 6: Dental Vacuum Systems: Principles & Types (Wet vs. Dry)","Week 7: Dental Vacuum System Components & Operation","Week 8: Lab: Vacuum System Maintenance & Midterm Review","Week 9: Amalgam Separators: Function, Installation & Regulations","Week 10: Plumbing Fundamentals for Dental Utilities","Week 11: Lab: Utility Room Layout & Plumbing Connections","Week 12: Preventive Maintenance Schedules & Best Practices","Week 13: Advanced Troubleshooting & Diagnostic Techniques","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Full Utility System Evaluation"]