Caring for your teeth is an integral part of overall health and well-being, and part of this is seeing a dentist regularly. Unfortunately, during the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people could not see their dentist due to quarantine regulations. Now, many offices are re-opening with advanced protocols to protect staff and patients. Here is what you should know. 

How Dentists Are Taking Precautions

Dentists are implementing several precautions to protect staff and patients. This includes taking cautious hygiene measures. Offices may install HEPA filters to filter the air in treatment rooms and common areas, and they may disinfect surfaces frequently throughout the day.

Many hygienists have temporarily paused the use of ultrasonic scaling and are using hand scaling techniques instead. During necessary procedures that may produce aerosols, dentists may also utilize high-volume suction equipment to minimize the generation and spread of aerosols. 

Also, dentists may make changes to their admissions protocol. For instance, you may be asked several questions over the phone before booking an appointment to determine if you may have COVID-19. If you have symptoms, you will need to cancel your appointment. 

Staff may also take your temperature with a touchless infrared thermometer when you arrive and turn away patients who have a fever. Likewise, all staff members will have their daily temperatures taken and stay home if they exhibit symptoms.

Waiting rooms may be closed, and patients may be asked to wait outside until they are called in for their appointment. Patients should also wear masks, and staff will wear personal protective equipment, including face masks, shields, goggles, gloves and more. 

How to Care for Yourself 

Some dentists may still be limiting appointments to emergencies only, and others are still playing catch-up trying to reschedule patients who missed their appointments. It is essential to keep up with your regular at-home oral hygiene regimen between appointments. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day.  

If you have had COVID-19, change your toothbrush when you have recovered. This is the same protocol you should follow after any illness, including the flu, as re-using a toothbrush can continue passing germs. If you use an electric brush, replace the head. 

It is not yet clear if COVID-19 can affect oral health. However, maintaining a strong at-home hygiene regimen is crucial to prevent cavities and gum disease issues. If you experience a severe oral health dilemma, such as tooth pain, a lost filling, or a fracture, call your dentist’s office for advice. Even if they cannot accept patients for non-emergency events, they may have staff on hand to answer urgent questions. 

In Onondaga County, NY, Revercomb Dental Group is known as one of the community’s best resources for comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry. This Manlius dentist office is now scheduling appointments for new and returning patients for a broad range of procedures, including cleanings, dental implants, root canals, and emergency same-day dentistry. Call (315) 682-8400 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about their COVID-19 adjustments.