Air compressors are increasingly being utilized in the medical field. As an essential air supply device for dental units, oil-free compressors have been fully adopted abroad, providing oil-free, odorless, hygienic, clean, and dry green air sources. The development of dentistry in China will also drive another wave of growth for oil-free compressors.  

It is reported that in dental treatments, procedures such as light curing, glass ionomer applications, and porcelain crowns place high demands on the air source (air compressor). If the compressed air contains oil molecules, the bonding strength and durability of light-cured materials will be significantly compromised, ultimately affecting treatment quality and outcomes. Similar issues can arise during other dental treatments, such as glass ionomer applications. In the process of creating porcelain crowns, the compressor needs to supply air continuously for extended periods. Oil-lubricated compressors, due to their technical limitations, produce air containing oil and cannot operate continuously (the machine overheats, shuts down automatically, and requires a prolonged cooling period before restarting). In contrast, oil-free compressors can maintain prolonged operation without shutdowns, delivering completely oil-free compressed air that meets treatment requirements.  

Since oil-free compressors produce clean, oil-free compressed air, blowing this air into a patient's mouth poses no health risks. Oil-lubricated compressors, on the other hand, have the opposite effect, adversely affecting patient health, environmental hygiene, and sustainability. Currently, relevant authorities in China are placing increasing emphasis on the adoption of oil-free technology in dental hospitals and clinics and have begun drafting related laws and regulations. These measures are expected to be implemented soon, aligning China's dental practices with global standards, safeguarding patient health, improving medical quality, and promoting environmental protection.  

Whether considering the use and maintenance of dental units and handpieces, the lifespan of equipment, or environmental and health factors, oil-free compressors are the optimal choice for medical air sources. As dental materials continue to advance, the requirements for air sources will become even more stringent, making oil-free compressors an inevitable trend.  

Compared to oil-lubricated compressors, oil-free compressors also offer greater convenience in terms of usage and maintenance. For example, oil-lubricated compressors require oil refills before use and frequent oil changes depending on temperature variations. Neglecting these steps can lead to cylinder seizures and complete machine failure. Prolonged use of oil-lubricated compressors can also result in carbon buildup, causing various malfunctions. In contrast, oil-free compressors are far simpler to use and maintain, essentially requiring minimal upkeep.