Going to the Dentist During the Pandemic
Is It Safe to Go to the Dentist During the Pandemic?
What is Covid-19 and how does it spread?
While new discoveries are made every day, this is what we know. According to the Center of Disease Control (CDC) “COVID-19 or Coronavirus is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered coronavirus. It spreads primarily through droplets of saliva, or droplets of the nose from an infected person. Through growing evidence, it appears the virus can spread airborne when an infected person: coughs, sneezes, sings, or talks.” It is important to keep a distance (6 feet apart) and wash your hands thoroughly (for at least 20 seconds) and consistently throughout the day.
If COVID-19 can be transferred by the mouth, how is the dentist safe?
The CDC recommends that dentists use additional prevention and control practices, along with the regular practices as a part of routine dental healthcare to all patients. Most dental tools like mirrors, forceps, and dental scalers are being sterilized using an autoclave. An autoclave is a machine that disinfects using high-pressure steam. If you are ever uneasy about tool sterilization, ask your dentist! They are here to help put you at ease with any questions you may have.
Going to the Dentist During the Pandemic
What is A Smile 4 U doing to prevent the spread?
Your safety at A Smile 4 U is top priority. Many changes were made to accommodate our patients such as:
- Closely following the CDC & ADA protocols for sanitation to protect both patients and our team at all times.
- Pre-screening phone calls before you go into the office.
- We ask you please wear a mask when inside the building.
- No one except patients are allowed into the building unless they are 7 years or younger, elderly who need assistance, or special needs that need assistance, in which one parent or caretaker may accompany the patient into the treatment area.
- Temperature checks at your vehicle.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly before your appointment.
Read more about the measures we have in effect in the Letter to Our Patients on our website.
So, is it safe to visit the dentist During the Pandemic?
With the proper precautions, yes. According to the American Dental Association (ADA) – even during a pandemic, it is still safe to go to the dentist. “Dentists are following ADA and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, and it’s helping to keep the dental team and their patients as safe as possible,” said Marcelo Araujo, DDS, MS, PhD, American Dental Association Science and Research Institute chief executive officer. Part of keeping a strong, healthy immune system is at the mouth.
Rest assured, we are doing our best to keep our community safe & continue providing excellent services to you and your loved ones during this time. During tough times your oral health should still be a priority.
As You can also read more about:
Root Canal Treatment: When Is It Necessary?
What Should You Do in a Dental Emergency?
February Newsletter
Orthodontic
Gum Health : Key to a Healthy Smile
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