Importance

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Abstract

A filter-adapter for filtering amalgam and attaching multiple sizes of disposable aspirator tips to the suction line of a dental aspirator system is disclosed herein. The filter-adapter incorporates a filter for preventing amalgam from contaminating the suction line and significantly reducing the amount of amalgam that reaches the central amalgam separator in the system. The filter-adapter fits between the aspirator tip and the suction hose of the aspirator system. In particular, one embodiment of the filter-adapter comprises a substantially cylindrical, hollow body with a flowpath defined through the body, an outer surface diameter at one end sealably fitting one size aspirator tip and an inner surface diameter of the same end sealably fitting another size of aspirator tip, and a second end having an outer surface diameter sealably fitting the suction hose from the aspirator system. A substantially planar filter element is secured across the flowpath to prevent amalgam from entering the suction hose, and a ledge projects outwardly from the filter-adapter to prevent it from being drawn into the suction hose by vacuum pressure.

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First Claim