Maintaining safety in dental clinics is a top priority for dental healthcare providers. The COVID-19 epidemic significantly altered how dental offices functioned and prompted the adoption of stricter safety standards. The dental industry has adapted to these changes and worked tirelessly to keep up with the evolving situation to protect patients and dental healthcare providers.
Read on to learn more.
What Are the Dental Clinic Safety Guidelines?
Let’s review the numerous safety measures dental clinics use to keep their patients safe.
Screening Patients
Before getting oral treatments like dental retainers, patients are screened for COVID-19 symptoms and exposure to individuals who tested positive for the virus. Dental clinics may also ask patients if they have recently traveled to high-risk areas. These screening questions help identify patients who may risk spreading the virus to others. If a patient exhibits symptoms or has had recent exposure, their appointment may be rescheduled later.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Dental healthcare providers must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard themselves and their patients from infection. PPE includes masks, gloves, and protective eyewear. Masks are now mandatory for all patients who visit dental clinics. PPE is essential to limit the spread of the virus and maintain a sterile environment in the dental clinic.
Social Distancing
Dental clinics are employing social distancing strategies to help reduce the spread of the virus. Waiting room chairs are spaced out to maintain a safe distance between patients. Some clinics have devised a system where patients sit in their automobiles until their appointments are called. This contributes to reducing the number of persons in the waiting area at any given moment. Dental clinics also arrange appointments at regular intervals to lessen the number of patients seen at any given moment.
Enhanced Cleaning and Disinfection
Dental clinics have stepped up their cleaning and disinfection practices to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned after every patient. This includes using disinfectants that are effective against the virus. Waiting room chairs, door handles, and other high-touch surfaces are cleaned and disinfected frequently to minimize the risk of infection.
Aerosol Reduction
Dental operations frequently produce aerosols, possibly contributing to the virus’s propagation. Dental clinics have implemented strategies to reduce the amount of aerosols produced during treatments. This includes using high-volume suction and preprocedural mouth rinses to minimize the amount of saliva and blood in the mouth.
Telehealth
Some dental clinics now offer telehealth consultations for certain appointments to reduce the number of patients who physically visit the clinic. This allows patients to discuss their dental concerns with a healthcare provider or orthodontist without visiting the clinic. Telehealth consultations have become increasingly popular during the pandemic and will likely remain an option for patients.
You can visit this page to schedule an appointment for your orthodontic procedure.
What Should You Expect During Your Next Dental Appointment?
Knowing what to expect during your next dental appointment is essential as a patient. In addition to the safety guidelines mentioned above, you may experience some changes in the appointment process. For example, if you’d like to determine the average cost of Invisalign treatment, you may be requested to wait in your car until your appointment schedule to make room for other patients. To limit contact, your local dental clinic may require you to complete forms online or over the phone before your appointment.
Final Thoughts
As dental clinics continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to remember that safety guidelines are put in place to protect both staff and patients. If you have concerns about your next dental appointment, don’t hesitate to contact your local dental clinic. By working together, you can continue to prioritize safety and protect yourself during these uncertain times.
