In March, our world forever changed as COVID-19 became a global pandemic. Almost overnight, face coverings were required, social distancing guidelines were in place, and stay-at-home orders were mandated. Fortunately, these infection control measures have made the transition into our “new normal” possible. However, many patients are still hesitant to schedule their routine dental appointment since extensive research is still underway on this novel virus. If you are thinking of postponing your bi-yearly visit, then read on for three COVID-19 safety measures your dentist is implementing.
#1. Wearing Additional Personal Protective Equipment
Pre-pandemic, your dentist would wash their hands, put on their face mask, and use a fresh set of gloves before starting your appointment. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration are currently recommending that dental teams use additional personal protective equipment in light of COVID-19. Therefore, don’t be surprised if your dentist enters the treatment room wearing a face shield, disposable coat, and shoe coverings. In fact, even the office staff is suiting up by wearing face masks and gloves!
#2. Implementing Extensive Sanitation Measures
As dental offices reopen, one important thing is on everyone’s mind: sanitation and cleanliness. Fortunately, your dentist is an expert in this matter and has been following proper infection control requirements long before 2020. To ensure that cross-contamination does not occur and that their office remains a sterile environment, dental teams are:
- Cleaning after every appointment.
- Conducting a deep cleaning each evening.
- Placing hospital-grade hand sanitizing stations throughout their office.
- Asking patients to rinse with an anti-microbial mouthwash before their appointment.
- Using CDC-approved instrument sterilization.
#3. Making Social Distancing a Practical Reality
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts at the CDC have continued to reinforce the importance of social distancing. In fact, they estimate that implementing the 6-foot distance guideline has saved up to 185,000 lives! With this in mind, your dental team is re-designing their office to make social distancing a practical reality. A few of the changes you can expect are:
- Virtual waiting rooms.
- Spaced out appointments to limit foot traffic.
- Tele-dentistry for follow-up appointments.
- One-way traffic signs to effectively guide patients throughout the office.
- Contactless greetings.
As the world continues to battle COVID-19, we must all do our part to limit the spread of this potentially fatal virus. Fortunately, your dental team is implementing the above measures to ensure you can get the oral care you need without compromising your safety!
About the Practice
At Prime Dentistry, quality care, top-tier customer service, and flexible hours come together for one truly stress-free dental experience. With their friendly staff at their side, Dr. Ahir uses his extensive experience and impressive clinical skills to help their patients achieve beautiful smiles and pristine oral health. If you would like additional information on how they are protecting their patients during COVID-19, contact their team through their website or by phone at 940-514-0333.
