How Dentists are Maintaining a Clean and Safe Space During COVID-19

All dentists share a common trait; they’re notoriously anal about maintaining a clean environment. That’s because they know how important it is for preserving the health of their patients and staff. Furthermore, they are given strict guidelines to follow. Now that COVID-19 has posed a unique threat to the health and well-being of Americans, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has issued some reminders to dentists of the importance of taking every precaution to prevent the spread of the virus. Thus, when you visit your dentist in Edison, you can rest assured that you’re in a safe environment. Read on to find out what’s being done to protect you.

Safety Measures Already in Place

Regardless of a potential health threat, dentists always follow a strict set of guidelines to maintain the health and well-being of everyone in the office. Here are some of the standard precautions that are interwoven into their normal practices:

• Washing hands thoroughly with water and soap (plain or antimicrobial), and performing careful hand scrubs when preparing for oral surgery
• Use of personal protective equipment (gloves, masks, eyewear) to protect the dentist and staff from exposure to infection
• Respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, advising patients and staff to cough into the crook of the arm
• To provide signage for patients with cough or symptoms related to respiratory illness, as to limit the possible transmission of infection
• Safe injection practices to prevent exposure to infection
• Sterile instruments and devices to prevent the transmission of microorganisms
• Clean and disinfected environment surfaces, with trash cans available

After the COVID-19 crisis eases, in addition to the usual protective equipment that is worn, the new norm will be to see your dentist and staff wearing facial shields as well. This will serve as in added means of preventing splashes, spills and other sudden occurrences from possibly spreading infection.

Help is Available for Emergency Situations

Around the country, most dentists have placed a temporary hold on elective, routine and hygienic care. However, if you’re having a dental emergency, you can’t afford to wait to receive care. Thus, many dentists are available to provide the expert care you need.

It’s good to know, though, that in these worrisome situations, you don’t have to be troubled with the thought of being infected with COVID-19.

The Role You Play

You also play an integral part in slowing the spread of COVID-19. If you’re displaying any of the potential symptoms (shortness of breath, fever, throat soreness or loss of taste), then you should let the staff member know when you call to request a visit. Therefore, special precautions can be taken to ensure that, along with restoring your oral health, everyone remains safe.

About the Author

Dr. David S. Rosenfeld earned his dental degree from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. He then went on to receive advanced training in several areas, including cosmetic dentistry, oral pathology and pediatric dentistry. Dr. Rosenfeld maintains a clean and safe environment so that all his patients can feel comfortable receiving care, even in the era of COVID-19. He practices at Rosenfeld Dental Associates, and he can be reached for more information through his website.