What Your Dentist Is Doing To Fight COVID-19 At Their Practice

If it has been a long time since your last dental visit, you’re not alone. When the coronavirus pandemic started, many practices limited their services to emergencies only to prevent the spread of the virus. While dentists in Hammonton are beginning to resume normal preventive care treatments, they are taking extra precautions while doing so. Keep reading to find out what new protective measures you can expect to see in action during your next dental visit.

Vehicle Waiting Rooms

Your dentist will now allow you to check in and wait in your car prior to your scheduled appointment time. This way, you can avoid depositing germs near the entrance of the office.

Screening For Symptoms

When you arrive, a staff member will ask you a series of questions and take your temperature to find out if you have any signs of COVID-19 infection. If you do, you may be asked to delay you appointment by two weeks.

Social Distancing Guidelines

Social distancing is now in full effect at your local dentist’s office. Your dental care team will no longer be greeting patients with friendly hugs or handshakes. Signs have also been posted in the office to create a one directional flow of patients that prevents crowding.

Physical Barriers

At strategic points in the office, plastic guards have been installed to keep viral particles from circulating through the air and landing on surfaces.

Pre-Appointment Mouthwash

Before you sit down in the dentist’s chair, you may be provided with a cup of anti-microbial mouthwash to rinse with. This substance will remove disease causing bacteria and viral particles inside your mouth so that they can’t be released into the air during normal dental care procedures.

New Protective Equipment

If your dentist and hygienist look a little strange while working on your mouth, don’t be afraid! They are just using the latest personal protective equipment. The N95 masks you have heard so much about will be used along with ASTM Level 3 masks. They will prevent viral particles from moving between your mouths and noses. Face shields and disposable protective coats will also be worn to make sure that the virus can’t make contact with a care provider’s clothes or skin.

Your dentist knows that before they can give you a brilliant smile, they have to be able to ensure your safety. These are just some of the many new changes they are making in their office to give you a secure treatment experience. When you return for your next appointment, you can relax knowing that you are protected from COVID-19.

About the Author

Dr. David Crescenzo earned his dental degree at Georgetown Dental School in 1990. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, he keeps up to date on the latest developments in dental safety practices. His practice has prepared for COVID-19 by adding 19 new ways to protect patients. If you’re looking for a dentist to assist you with a problem in your mouth, you can make an appointment with him through his website or at 609-561-0058.