Society is slowly starting to open up again, but the mark of the COVID-19 pandemic remains. Most locations are introducing new protocols for the safety and health of their at-risk patrons, and that’s probably more true at medical offices than anywhere else. Even if your dentist in Kittanning is open for regular appointments again, odds are your next visit probably won’t be the same as your last one. Here are 5 changes you can expect to see at your dental practice.
1. Waiting in Your Car
You know the routine: after you check in at the front desk, you fill out the paperwork, turn it back in, then sit down and wait to be called by the dentist. Nowadays, however, in order to minimize the contact you might have with others, dental practices may ask you to check in from your car via smartphone. Once your dentist is ready, you’ll be able to head directly with the treatment room while spending the least amount of time possible in the reception area.
2. Sequenced, Extended Appointments
The easiest way to limit exposure is to schedule fewer appointments. When you schedule your next checkup, you may notice that more time has been allocated so that there’s plenty of time for patients to leave and for the team to perform any necessary cleaning. Also, your practice may offer extended appointment times so that more dentistry can be done over the course of your visit; not only will this save you time later, but it will also limit the amount of exposure since you’ll be making fewer trips overall.
3. Additional Equipment
Dentists have already been using masks when treating their patients, but now, to minimize the spread of airborne particles as much as possible, they will also wear FDA approved face shields, disposable coats & hats, and even shoe coverings. All of this equipment will be disposed of or sterilized after use.
4. No Handshakes
As much as you might respect or appreciate your dentist, now is not the time to risk the spread of viruses or infectious diseases with unnecessary person-to-person contact, which is why handshakes and hugs will be actively discouraged during your visit.
5. Patient Pre-Screening
Before beginning your treatment, you’ll be asked to fill out a quick health questionnaire that will determine whether or not your dentist needs to take specific steps to protect you and others from COVID-19. A no-touch temperature check will also be performed at this point.
There are plenty of other steps that your practice may have adopted as part of their dental safety protocol. The next time you think, “It’s time to see the dentist near me,” don’t forget to ask about some of the changes they’ve made to protect you and others.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry as well as an enthusiastic lecturer who has often spoken in front of dental professionals, lay groups, and students about modern dental practices. He is absolutely committed to making sure his office is as safe as possible for patients who are looking to have their smiles cleaned and treated. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about Voller Dentistry’s safety protocol, get in touch with Dr. Voller through his website or by calling (724) 543-4948.