In the wake of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak, officials are telling people to stay home. There are cases where you can still leave your home, including getting medical care. In some cases, dentist offices may still be open to provide emergency care for patients. The American Dental Association (ADA) has issued COVID-19 guidelines. Dentists should follow these to maintain a clean environment for patients.
Patients who visit the dentist’s office during this pandemic should be cautious. This is especially true for people who have Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) symptoms. Dentists should be committed to looking out for patients’ welfare. Still, professionals must still provide essential oral care. The ADA urges dentists to inform patients of the latest developments in COVID-19 prevention. Dental offices should maintain strict processes so patients can feel comfortable and at ease.
Dentists should not allow any office staff members, assistants or hygienists to report to work if they have flu-like symptoms. This includes fever, a sore throat, muscle aches or cough. If any employees have Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) symptoms, the dentist should inform that person’s health care provider immediately. If the staff member is not breathing effectively, the individual should immediately seek medical assistance.
To reduce the risk of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) transmission, dentists should wear protection. Staff members and hygienists should do the same. All disposable facemasks should be discarded after one use. Dentists should replace masks between the treatment of each patient. Also, if water gets on the masks during an appointment with a patient, the dentist should get a new one. Dentists should also use eye protection and a face shield to protect the face from fluids.
When scheduling appointments, dentists should spread out visits. This will reduce the number of people in the office. Staff members should confirm appointments in advance. When doing this, office workers should encourage patients to arrive on time. Arriving early will increase the waiting time and could put two or more people in the waiting room. If more than one patient is in the waiting room together, they should not be closer than 6 feet apart.
Before admitting anyone inside the office, the staff must create the right setting. There should not be any magazines in the waiting room. Staff members should remove toys and video game consoles with controllers. The dentist should make sure there are no other such objects out in the open. Employees should clean the office. Staff should sanitize surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, chairs and light switches.
Your dentist will follow these ADA guidelines at the dental office. You can have peace of mind that the right measures will be in place if you go in for an appointment. Your dentist understands the gravity of this pandemic. But, you still may need dental care. Do not hesitate to call your dentist if you have an emergency need to relieve pain or repair a damaged tooth.
Request an appointment here: https://www.summerenlowdds.com or call Summer Enlow, DDS PC at (936) 314-2347 for an appointment in our Nacogdoches office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
For dental emergencies, people can go to an emergency dentist or an emergency room. However, several things should be considered before deciding where to seek medical help. Just like any other medical emergency, dental emergencies also require different levels of care. This depends on their severity. The ideal place to go for treatment when you…
A smile makeover often leads to increased self-esteem and confidence. Having a radiant, healthy smile also gives you increased success during professional and personal interactions. People with great smiles are often perceived as attractive and successful, while those with unsightly smiles are sometimes viewed as unclean and unsuccessful. A smile makeover is a combination of…
Dental sedation is a great way to reduce pain and anxiety before and during dental treatment. There are different methods of dental sedation for patients to consider. The recommended method depends on the preference of the patient, the extensiveness of the treatment procedure and the patient’s general health. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are common types…
Countless patients around the globe wear dentures, and they will face the need for denture repair at some point. There is no reason to fear needing any repair done on your dentures. When you first were fitted, your dentist went over the proper care and gave you tips and suggestions on how to keep them looking…
For dental emergencies, people can go to an emergency dentist or an emergency room. However, several things should be considered before deciding where to seek medical help. Just like any other medical emergency, dental emergencies also require different levels of care. This depends on their severity. The ideal place to go for treatment when you…
A smile makeover often leads to increased self-esteem and confidence. Having a radiant, healthy smile also gives you increased success during professional and personal interactions. People with great smiles are often perceived as attractive and successful, while those with unsightly smiles are sometimes viewed as unclean and unsuccessful. A smile makeover is a combination of…