With dental offices reopening, more individuals are considering visiting the dentist for routine dental care and elective procedures. However, while reopening is taking place, it is important to remember that the COVID-19 pandemic is still a relevant problem. Because of this, certain guidelines are being put in place that dental offices and patients should expect to adhere to.
There are a few guidelines for dental offices reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic. When considering visiting the dentist, it can be helpful to review the following information.
Personal protective equipment has become a mandatory part of dental offices reopening, which includes masks and facial coverings. Dental offices are required to wear additional PPE, including masks, face shields, eyeglasses, gowns, gloves and head coverings. The use of PPE protects both the patient and the dental team during the appointment or procedure. Additionally, another recommended guideline for dental offices reopening is that patients wear masks or facial coverings when entering and departing the practice.
Another guideline for dental offices reopening is the implementation of additional sanitizing and disinfecting. Dental offices are thoroughly sanitizing all surfaces, including countertops, chairs and door handles in between each dental appointment. While dental offices have already had disinfecting measures in place, the COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged an increase.
Patients visiting the dentist will also be advised to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer when checking in. Hand washing and sanitizer can help destroy any remnants of the virus, which could be spread during the appointment.
Dental offices reopening does not mean that things are back to normal. Instead, most are operating at limited capacity, which means not everyone will be able to see the dentist when they want to. There will be limited availability due to the limit on capacity in the physical office. This guideline is put into place so patients and dental teams remain at low risk of developing or transmitting COVID-19.
An important guideline for dental offices reopening is that procedures that are necessary will be prioritized over elective ones. Because most practices are operating at limited capacity, it is important that individuals who require immediate dental attention get the treatment they need before those who want a cosmetic or elective dentistry procedure. For example, those who have gum disease should be prioritized over individuals who want their teeth whitened. Additionally, individuals who are at a high risk of developing cavities, abscesses or gum disease should get the dental care they need instead of a dental veneer patient.
When curious about further guidelines for dental offices reopening, it is best to consult directly with a dentist. Questions and concerns can be addressed, which can be helpful in easing any anxieties about returning to the dentist for an appointment. Reach out today to learn more or to get set up for a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://sandimassedation.com or call San Dimas Family and Sedation Dentistry at (909) 740-8294 for an appointment in our San Dimas office.
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