Like everyone else, you have concerns about Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). You want to avoid the disease, but you still need services such as dental care during this time. You can take comfort to know that your dentist is taking all the appropriate steps to watch out for you. When you go into the office, the dental staff is being cautious and prudent.
Across the world, health officials are urging people to stay home. Only trips for essential supplies and needs are wise. People continue to need health care for non-COVID-19 issues. This includes dental services. Patients should postpone routine wellness checkups and elective treatments such as teeth whitening. Dental offices continue to operate for emergency procedures. These include teeth restorations and treatments for infections, injuries and severe tooth decay.
Dentists want fewer people in their facilities during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak. To do this, practices are staggering appointments. This keeps more people out of waiting rooms so that not many people are gathered in the same place. Dental staff members are also urging patients not to arrive early.
Those who do show up before their appointments may wait in the car until the dentist is ready to see them. For an emergency visit, patients should call ahead of time. Patients should not bring more than one person with them to the office. If possible, patients should come alone.
Dentists and employees will follow guidelines from the American Dental Association. These steps will help to prevent Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) transmission. Staff associates will disinfect contact points in the office. These areas include doors, doorknobs, light switches, countertops and furniture. Dentists should remove all objects from waiting rooms, such as magazines and brochures. Where possible, dental staff can put up glass partitions at the front desk.
The dentist should examine the health and wellness of staff members. Any assistants or hygienists who show signs of sickness should not come into work. Dentists should be aware of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) signs and symptoms. These include fever, dry cough and difficulty breathing. If any employees have these issues, the dentist should notify the person’s health care provider. Dentists should report patients with COVID-19 to the local health department.
The ADA advises dentists to use facemasks for single use only. Dentists should replace masks after working on each patient. Eye protection and shields are also effective at keeping fluids off the dentist and assistants. The dentist should wear gloves when examining and treating patients. An infected patient may still have emergency dental needs. The dentist should coordinate care with the person’s doctor in these cases.
During this time of uncertainty, you want to do your part to prevent Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) transmission. Though you want to remain home, you still may have an emergency dental condition arise. You can take comfort to know that your dentist will take ADA-approved steps to protect you and other patients. If you have concerns about your visit, share those with the dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Emergency dentistry for a root canal is sometimes the only way to relieve your pain. Some patients may have a root canal scheduled for a future date, but they find themselves in severe pain at an inconvenient time because of tooth pain. There may even be times when a patient may not realize they need…
Dental crowns can treat many different concerns. They can repair damaged teeth, attach to dental implants for teeth replacement, and more. Two of the main types of dental crowns are metal and porcelain crowns. Both are effective solutions, but one may be preferable to another depending on the intended purpose.Your dentist should help you decide…
Dental bonding and teeth whitening are common dental procedures that improve the appearance of your smile. However, some patients are concerned that their teeth may not have the same shade after teeth whitening, particularly if they have had dental bonding on one or more teeth. This review helps patients deal with this concern. Understanding the difference…
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
An infected tooth is a very serious dental emergency, and you should have it treated…
Dental crowns, also called dental caps, are dental restorations that are placed over existing teeth…
Understanding the difference between dental bonding and teeth whitening and how the treatment process works…
Undergoing routine dental cleanings is necessary to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria responsible for…
Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still…
The right cosmetic dentist can improve your smile and dental function at the same time.