Dentists know that you don’t necessarily always look forward to coming to their office, so they do everything they can to make the experience comfortable. One of the ways they do this is by making the environment clean and safe for you. With COVID-19 continuing to spread, they know that these visits might feel even more stressful, so they’re taking action to defend you from the virus. Many have implemented advanced safety procedures on top of their usual cleaning and sterilization protocols. Keep reading to learn more about what steps are being taken by your local dentist in Carlisle.
More Personal Protective Equipment
As soon as you step into the office, you may notice that you’re unable to see the usual welcoming smiles of the front desk team. That’s because everyone in the office will now be utilizing personal protective equipment. ASTM Level 1 masks will be worn by staff in the reception area, while team members who are involved in patient care will wear Level 3 masks and N95 masks, as well as protective coverings over their clothes.
Keeping The Office Germ Free
Practices are using new techniques and technology to prevent germs from accumulating on surfaces. These include:
- Removing reading materials from waiting rooms.
- Placing clear barriers in specific areas to impede the flow of germs.
- Utilizing high speed suction devices during treatment to catch viral particles before they can leave a patient’s mouth.
- Continuing to use CDC approved sterilization procedures on instruments.
- Cleaning operatories after each appointment and disinfecting the entire office at the end of the day.
Preparing The Staff For Your Visit
Dental teams are making sure that no one in the office has symptoms of COVID-19. To do this, they are requiring everyone to complete a health check questionnaire and have their temperature taken prior to seeing patients.
They are also limiting the amount of unnecessary contact they make with patients. Office tours have been suspended for the time being. Regular greetings like handshakes and hugs have been replaced with no contact ones as well.
New Policies For Patients
When you come in for your next visit, you will be asked to:
- Remove any gloves or masks you are wearing prior to entering the office.
- Complete a health check to verify that you don’t have symptoms of the coronavirus.
- Rinse with an Oracare solution to kill some of the germs in your mouth.
These procedures reflect your dentist’s continued commitment to keeping you safe while providing high quality care. As the pandemic changes over time, they will continue to adapt and modify their practice to protect you from COVID-19.
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Neslund focuses on providing care that improves the health of a patient’s entire body. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association, he is always learning about the latest developments in dental safety procedures. If you want to learn more how he is improving his practice to handle COVID-19, you can reach him through his website or at 717-258-5455.