We are committed to keeping our patients, staff and community safe. Our office practices the highest levels of Infection Control and follows all CDC standard protocols during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Almost all aspects of life seem to be altered in some way by COVID-19, including dentistry. In the early phases of the pandemic, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommended routine dental care be postponed, and that dentists provide only emergent and urgent dental care.
That recommendation was made when much was still being discovered about this new virus. There was a shortage of supplies, including personal protective equipment that dentists need to safely provide patient care.
As the pandemic continued, the ADA modified its guidance and now recommends dentists resume providing regular dental visits, including routine dental care. During the pandemic, both the CDC and the ADA continue to provide science-based recommendations for dental practices.
Recommendations include screening dental patients for COVID-19 symptoms before dental appointments and checking the temperature of patients before starting procedures. Any patients feeling unwell with possible COVID-19 symptoms of cough, fever and shortness of breath should reschedule their dental appointment or be given the option for a virtual dental appointment known as a TeleDental appointment.
Patients may also be encouraged to limit companions at dental appointments. We may recommend that patients and companions wait in their vehicle and call upon arrival to further promote physical distancing in the waiting room and dental office.
Cleaning protocols have been enhanced to include frequent disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs. Shared items in the waiting room, such as magazines, have been removed.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is believed to spread by respiratory droplets from infected people in close proximity to one another. To provide dental treatment, patients must remove their facemasks once seated in the dental chair. Dental healthcare personnel may be wearing more protective equipment, including face shields and surgical mask or respirator.
Some dental procedures may produce aerosols. High-velocity suction equipment is used to help minimize aerosols. As a precaution, we may also allow more time between patients seated in the same room, thus reducing scheduling availability. Additional HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filtration units in the office also help clean the air
Sandstone Family Dentistry has added safety enhancements that include a greeter at the front door who screens visitors and takes temperatures, HEPA filtration systems, increased physical barriers in the office and front desk area, and social distancing within the office.
We continue to put your health and safety as our top priority.
Thank you for your trust and understanding. We look forward to everyone getting through this together.