According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, nearly 50% of Americans feel fear around visiting the dentist. This already staggering number is expected to rise as patients schedule their first visit back since the stay-at-home orders were put in place. After all, is it safe to go to the dentist? What are they doing to ensure your safety? How can you practice social distancing in the treatment room?
Fortunately, your dentist is an expert on infection control, and they are using their extensive experience and skills to ensure your next visit is safe. To help ease your concerns, your dentist in Frederick is sharing four safety measures you can expect at your appointment during COVID-19.
Designated Safety Champion
In light of the current pandemic, each member of the team is undergoing additional training to enhance his or her knowledge and preparedness. However, dentists are taking this prevention tactic a step further by assigning a safety champion each day. In this position, one team member will be responsible for answering patients’ questions, ensuring social distancing, and monitoring the practice.
Social Distancing Guidelines
Both the CDC and the OHSA continue to reinforce the importance of maintaining a 6-foot distance. While you and your dentist will inevitably breach these guidelines, they are taking other measures to make social distancing a practical reality at your appointment. Some of these measures include:
- Virtual waiting rooms that allow you to check-in with your phone and sit in the comfort of your car until the treatment room is ready.
- Contactless greetings, like air high-fives and waves.
- Installed clear barriers throughout the office to block the movement of airborne particles.
Extensive Sanitation Practices
In the fight against COVID-19, thorough and frequent sanitation remains a top priority. While your dentist’s office has always followed cleanliness guidelines put forth by the CDC, they are implementing additional practices in light of the current pandemic. At your next appointment, you can anticipate:
- Cleanings after every appointment.
- Deep cleanings each evening.
- Extensive handwashing from the entire staff.
- CDC-approved instrument sterilization.
- Chairside suction (which minimizes aerosol contamination and improves the air quality).
- Negative pressure rooms (which provide the highest levels of self-containment and climate control).
- HEPA air filtration.
- Frequently wiping down public surfaces (i.e., countertops, door handles, etc.).
Daily Health Checks For Staff
To ensure that their team is ready to provide safe dental care, dentists are requiring daily health checks for the entire staff. Before entering the office, each team member will receive a no-contact temperature check and a screening questionnaire to ensure that they are willing and able to participate in a safe, sterile environment. Also, these checks will ensure that all personal hygiene standards are being followed (i.e., no long nails, no nonessential jewelry, etc.).
Initially, visiting your dentist during COVID-19 can cause some anxiety and uncertainty. However, as your dentist’s office reopens, they are taking painstaking precautions to ensure their office is secure for their patients and staff alike. That way, you can get the dental care you need without compromising your safety!
About the Practice
At My Frederick Dentist, you can expect comprehensive treatment and world-class dental care from professionals that value your time and dental health. Led by Dr. Andrew Aziz and Dr. Melanie Smith, their state-of-the-art office focuses on providing personalized treatment that will achieve the long-lasting, beautiful smile you deserve. If you would like additional information on how they are practicing dental safety protocol in Frederick, please visit their website or give them a call at 301-698-9552.