With dental offices reopening, many patients are eager to visit the dentist for a cleaning or examination. However, despite the need for dental offices to reopen, the COVID-19 pandemic is still a relevant problem. Because of this, there are necessary precautionary measures that dental offices are required to take before opening their doors. These measures are helping slow the spread, while also ensuring that patients get the dental care they need.
Below is an overview of what is different as dental offices reopen. This information can be especially helpful to review prior to returning to the dentist.
Personal protective equipment includes face masks, eyeglasses, gloves, facial shields, full-body gowns and head coverings. Dental offices reopening means the entire staff will be wearing PPE to protect themselves, as well as incoming patients. While PPE does not necessarily prevent COVID-19, it does significantly reduce the risk of it being transmitted or spread.
Another thing that is different about dental offices reopening is the requirement of masks. Patients are being advised or required to wear facial masks when entering the dental office, as this protects themselves and the dental team.
Dental offices reopening does not mean that practices are operating at full capacity. In fact, many dental offices are only operating at 50-75% capacity due to COVID-19. Because of this, there are also limits on availability, meaning there are fewer appointments available to patients. Additionally, wait times may be longer, and non-emergent dental appointments may get pushed back a few months.
Another big change with dental offices reopening during COVID-19 is that social distancing will be practiced. Patients visiting the dentist should expect to wait in their car until told to come inside. Waiting rooms are typically closed off to encourage social distancing and to slow the spread of the virus. Appointments may also be held in private rooms to ensure 6 feet of distance between others, thus helping to slow any spread or transmission between patients and dental teams.
While dental practices have always been clean, COVID-19 has encouraged an increase in the way that things are disinfected and sanitized. All surfaces, including door handles, countertops and chairs are sanitized thoroughly after each dental appointment. Additionally, instruments and tools are being disinfected to maximum capability. These measures have been implemented to ensure a safe workplace and a safe environment for patients requiring dental care.
Navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic can be difficult, but dental offices reopening is ultimately a good thing. Those that need dental care can safely visit the dentist without fear or anxiety. To find out more about certain precautions and the current changes, reach out today. Questions and concerns can be addressed, which can be helpful when returning to the dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.uniquefamilydentistry.com or call Unique Family Dentistry at (908) 772-8640 for an appointment in our Linden office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Office in Linden, NJ.
General dentists are the primary dental professionals people visit once or twice per year for oral health care. According to the American Dental Association, or ADA, biannual appointments are necessary to protect the integrity of your oral health, regardless of age. During these appointments, the general dentist and their team perform check-ups and recommend preventative…
Choosing a general dentist is an important and personal decision. This dental professional plays a significant role in helping you maintain your oral and overall health. Finding the right dentist for you can make all the difference in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make…
Talking to your general dentist about your dental anxiety can help start your dental appointment the right way. This condition can prevent you from getting the right dental treatments. Keeping it at bay is possible during the visit. Here are the details on how your general dentist can help relieve your dental anxiety.This is an…
Finding the right dentist for your oral health needs is an important process. While a general dentist and a family dentist offer similar services, there are significant differences between these dental specialties. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision that best fits your and your family's needs.A general dentist is a primary…
General dentists are the primary dental professionals people visit once or twice per year for oral health care. According to the American Dental Association, or ADA, biannual appointments are necessary to protect the integrity of your oral health, regardless of age. During these appointments, the general dentist and their team perform check-ups and recommend preventative…
Choosing a general dentist is an important and personal decision. This dental professional plays a significant role in helping you maintain your oral and overall health. Finding the right dentist for you can make all the difference in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make…