Dental offices have always been and will continue to be one of the safest and cleanest places you will visit. Why? Because they are instructed to abide by certain guidelines and procedures when it comes to sanitizing and disinfecting instruments, equipment, and surfaces. With COVID-19 requiring additional measures to be taken on behalf of dental teams across the country, find out what steps your dentist is implementing to ensure a healthy environment for everyone who visits.
Providing Additional Staff Training
During a time when so many protocols and recommendations are coming from national healthcare organizations, all staff members will be informed, trained, and educated on updated regulations and policies. Your dental team will be well-versed on all updated guidelines to ensure all health and safety measures are top priorities.
Selecting a “Safety Champion”
One individual from the dental team will be designated at the “Safety Champion” for the office each day. This person will be responsible for ensuring social distancing is being practiced among patients and staff as well as answering questions and addressing any concerns brought forth by individuals in need of dental care.
Performing Staff Temperature Checks and Screenings
To ensure your dentist and dental team are ready to take care of your smile, temperature checks and screenings for COVID-19 will be performed daily. This includes using a no-contact thermometer as well as asking various questions to make sure everyone is healthy and symptom-free when they arrive for work.
Ensuring Social Distancing is Practiced
From rearranging the waiting area to removing magazines and self-serve beverage dispensers, the dental staff will work to reduce the risk of possible contamination by ensuring all patients are at least 6 feet apart when in the waiting area. It is important that you avoid bringing additional family members to your appointment, if possible.
Providing Antimicrobial Rinse Before Your Visit
Not only will you be asked to brush and floss your teeth before you arrive for your appointment, but your dentist will provide an antimicrobial mouthwash for you to use. This Oracare solution will allow you to rinse out your mouth for 60 seconds to minimize bacteria.
Although these are only a few examples of what your dentist’s office is implementing at this time, you are advised to contact your dental practice to discuss additional protocols you should be aware of. This will not only give you additional peace of mind, but it will help you to feel more confident about returning to your dentist for necessary care.
About the Author
Dr. Douglas Baldwin wants you to feel safe and comfortable when returning to
his office for dental work. Whether you need a regular checkup and cleaning or
elective treatment, he and his team at Foundation Dental Solutions are taking
added precautions to keep everyone informed about changes and guidelines as it
pertains to staff-patient interaction. While the initial phase may present some
challenges, we believe the steps we’re taking will decrease the chances of
contamination and the spread of COVID-19. To find out what we’re doing to
minimize risk, contact
us at (817) 478-4300.