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The global pandemic has significantly impacted all sectors, including dental care. Dentists are among the frontline healthcare workers who face a high risk of exposure due to their proximity to patients’ oral cavities. To ensure both patient and dentist safety during this time, stringent safety protocols have been implemented in dental practices worldwide.
Dentist offices have always adhered to strict hygiene standards even before the onset of the pandemic. However, with COVID-19, these measures have been enhanced further. One of the primary changes is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Dental professionals now don more robust PPE, such as N95 masks or respirators, face shields, gowns and gloves for every patient interaction.
In addition to increased usage of PPEs, many dental clinics are also implementing pre-appointment screenings. Patients are asked about recent travels and any symptoms related to COVID-19 before they can book an appointment. Some offices may also conduct temperature checks upon arrival at the clinic.
To maintain social distancing norms within clinics, modifications in scheduling practices have been made as well. Appointments are spaced out strategically so that fewer people occupy waiting areas at one time. This reduces unnecessary contact between patients and allows ample time for thorough cleaning between appointments.
High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, chairs and counters are disinfected frequently throughout the day using EPA-approved disinfectants known to kill coronavirus strains effectively. In treatment rooms too, sterilization procedures have been ramped up post each session with particular attention paid to tools used during treatments.
Another significant change is seen in aerosol-generating procedures which pose a higher risk due to potential virus spread through droplets in air particles created during certain treatments like drilling or ultrasonic cleaning. Many dentists now opt for hand instruments whenever possible over power tools or use rubber dams and high evacuation suction systems that limit aerosol production.
Patients may also be asked to rinse with hydrogen peroxide or povidone-iodine before any procedure to reduce the viral load in saliva. Meanwhile, some dentists have introduced air purifiers and extraoral suction systems that filter aerosols from the environment.
Tele-dentistry has also seen a rise during this period, with dentists offering consultations over video calls for minor issues or follow-ups. This reduces physical contact and potential virus exposure while ensuring patients get more comprehensive information timely advice for their dental concerns.
In conclusion, dental care is essential even during a pandemic. Dentists around the world are making concerted efforts to ensure safety by adhering to stringent protocols. These measures aim to minimize risk while providing necessary oral healthcare services in these challenging times. While visiting a dentist may seem daunting right now, rest assured that your health is their top priority.
