During the COVID-19 pandemic, going anywhere can seem risky. In order to effectively practice social distancing, you need to stay six feet away from other people, avoid gatherings, and avoid touching surfaces that other people touch. Sitting in waiting rooms with other people before your dentist does work in your mouth seems like the last scenario you want to be in right now. Fortunately, your dentist in Melbourne can tell you about the new steps that dentists are taking to ensure the safety of their patients and themselves.
What Should I Expect Before My Appointment?
Ne precautions are being taken before your appointment for the safety of you, your dentist, and other patients. This could mean:
- Phone screening: Before your appointment, your dental office may call you to ask questions about your current health.
- Limiting the number of people that you bring: In order to decrease potential spread of COVID-19, your dentist’s office staff may ask you to leave your children at home if possible.
How Will My Appointment Be Different?
When you arrive to your appointment, a few things may have changed. Here are some examples that may apply to you during your next visit:
- Face coverings: Depending on your state and city, you may be required to wear a personal face covering in public places. If this is the case, be sure to wear one to your dental appointment. This reduces the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus when you breathe and talk.
- Waiting outside: Your dentist’s staff may ask you to wait outside until they are ready for you. This limits the number of people in the office and reduces the likelihood of possible contagion.
- No toys or magazines: The last time you went to the dentist, you probably saw magazines, the newspaper, and toys to keep you and your child entertained before your appointment. These have been removed to protect you and others from picking up the virus on one of these surfaces.
- Personal hygiene products: Additional cleaning products and hand sanitizer may be available for you to use.
- Disposable coverings: Once you get to the dental chair, you may notice that your dentist has chosen to use additional disposable coverings over keyboards or other surfaces. This makes keeping the office clean and virus free much easier.
- Increased protective equipment: There’s a possibility that your dentist may use additional personal protective equipment than they’ve used previously. This may include different types of masks, face shields, gowns, and goggles. This helps protect both you and your dentist from possible exposure to the virus.
What Happens After I Leave?
After your appointment, the dentist’s staff will be sure that any areas which you had contact with are thoroughly cleaned in order to protect the next patient.
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 or test positive within two weeks of your appointment, give your dental office a call so they can take the necessary precautions to protect other patients and themselves.
Staying on top of your oral health is important, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Don’t be afraid to give your dentist a call to reschedule appointments or address any concerns you may have. They will be happy to answer your questions.
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose is an alumnus of the prestigious Las Vegas Institute and has been in private practice in the Melbourne, FL area for over two decades. She and her team provide an individualized approach to each patient to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. She would be happy to address any safety concerns that you may have about visiting the dental office. For more information, visit her website, or call (321) 259-4666.