Infection control has become the top priority all over the globe as the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control has established new guidelines for healthcare providers and dentists to follow as they continue to provide services for patients with the most pressing needs.
The coronavirus is an airborne virus that is very contagious. It is primarily spread by infected airborne droplets making contact with a person's nose or mouth. It can also be spread by contamination since it survives on surfaces for up to 48 hours. The virus can be spread even when the carrier is pre-symptomatic or asymptomatic. The combination of all these things makes infection control a challenging feat.
Here are some of the ways dentists are keeping their patients safe during the COVID-19 pandemic:
One of the ways dentists can reduce their risk of being infected with COVID-19 is by limiting the number of patients coming to their practice. Most dental clinics are only treating patients with dental emergencies, like knocked-out teeth, infections, gum disease, broken teeth, loose teeth and excruciating toothaches.
Teledentistry services are now available for patients dealing with non-emergencies. Depending on the patient's problems, the dentist might be able to diagnose them and instruct them on how to address the problem. Limiting dental services to emergencies helps to protect both dentists and their patients.
Dentists also use a variety of protective equipment to protect themselves and their staff when performing treatments. Face masks and shields can help to prevent contaminated droplets from getting on the dental worker's mouth and nose. It does not provide full protection against inhaling harmful airborne microorganisms, but it does provide some level of protection.
Using protective gear is particularly important for dentists since some of the tools used during treatments, like ultrasonic scalers, create aerosols that can be contaminated with the coronavirus.
Dentists are now scheduling appointments further apart to reduce the number of people at the clinic at any given time. Current social distancing guidelines recommend spacing people at least six feet apart from each other, and this is factored in when scheduling appointments.
Dentists are also giving their patients the option of checking in and waiting for the dentist in their car. This can provide an additional level of protection for patients.
Dental clinics have shared areas, like waiting rooms, which need to be regularly disinfected to prevent cross-contamination. Many dentists are cleaning these areas after every patient to protect themselves and their patients.
Sanitizing aids, like hand sanitizers, are available in such common areas so patients can sanitize their hands as needed. Keeping the hands clean remains one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
Our Oakland office remains open to people dealing with a dental emergency. Call us to find out of you need to come to the clinic.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalimplantsoakland.com or call Oakland Dental Implant Center at (510) 257-2284 for an appointment in our Oakland office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Dental laser therapy uses cutting-edge technology that has transformed the field of dentistry by providing less invasive and more precise treatment options. This innovative approach uses focused light energy to perform various dental procedures with increased comfort and efficiency. From treating gum disease to accelerating teeth whitening, dental laser therapy offers numerous benefits over traditional…
Finding out you need cold sore treatment may elicit a mixture of emotions. While this is understandable, working with a general dentist can help you manage symptoms and outbreaks. In an effort to ease some of the negative feelings that result from uncertainty regarding cold sore treatment, we will answer five of the most commonly…
Even if you don't know much about implants, chances are you've heard the term "dental implants" thrown about a few times. Bone grafting, on the other hand, is a term that is less well-known. It is a little ironic because bone grafting and implants are frequently used together in the dental profession. When bone loss…
Invisalign® is a teeth-straightening treatment that entails wearing sets of custom-made transparent aligners over the teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces that use wires and brackets, the aligners are removable, which means wearers can take them off when they want to eat or brush their teeth. Learn about these clear aligners and how they are used to…
Dental laser therapy uses cutting-edge technology that has transformed the field of dentistry by providing…
Cold sore treatment can look different for everyone. However, being well-informed and having access to…
If you're a dental patient considering implants, it's vital to remember being advised that bone…
Invisalign® is a teeth-straightening treatment that entails wearing sets of custom-made transparent aligners over the…
One of the most popular ways to treat stained teeth through cosmetic dentistry is with…
It is important to treat a dental emergency as soon as possible to prevent any…