Dear Patients,
With the recent news and public impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), our team wanted to share some of the protocols we have in place to protect your health and wellness at your dental visit.
As part of your health care team, we are monitoring changes and updated guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in our practice, interactions, and work environment to ensure patient and team safety. Since information is updated regularly, we recommend checking the latest recommendations each day.
Your number one line of safety is an educated and dedicated team. We have met with our entire staff to discuss protocols for keeping ourselves and patients safe, including symptoms to look for and what to do in the event of exposure.
Sterilization and Pathogen Control
- Our dental practice always maintains the highest cleanliness standards and sterilization protocols using OSHA-approved disinfectants and/or the barrier method to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
- We use medical-grade disinfectants and cleaners shown to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
- All instruments are sterilized using OSHA-approved methods between each patient. Instrument carriers are equipped with indicators that show they have reached the proper temperature during the process.
- Many of our instruments and supplies are designed for single use. Once used, they are immediately disposed of safely.
- Sterilization equipment is maintained and certified regularly.
- Common areas like reception desks, restrooms, and consultation areas are all regularly cleaned and disinfected to prevent disease spread outside of the treatment room.
- We have safety protocols in place in the event that our patients or dental team are exposed to coronavirus.
How Coronavirus Impacts Your Dental Appointment
Please contact us right away if any of the following conditions apply:
- You have traveled outside of the US in the last month.
- You have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, or flu-like symptoms.
- You have had contact with anyone who has been exposed to the coronavirus.
We are happy to reschedule appointments for patients who feel unwell or suspect they may have COVID-19.
How We Can Reduce the Spread of Coronavirus Together
Practicing common sense caution can help slow the spread of coronavirus. Here are some vital actions you can take, recommended by the CDC.
- Wash your hands frequently using soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol if hand washing is unavailable.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, face, or mouth unless you have clean hands.
- Maintain distance from others in public of at least six feet.
- Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
- Stay at home if you are sick.
- Throw used tissues away immediately.
- If you are sick and must go out, wear a facemask.
If you have recently found disinfectants unavailable due to the demand for these products, you can make your own solution at home using 1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water. Never mix bleach with any other types of cleaners or ammonia. You can also use alcohol solutions at 70% alcohol or higher.
You can learn more about disinfecting guidelines by visiting the CDC website.
If you have any questions or concerns about coronavirus, the action we are taking, or if you should come in for your dental appointment, we welcome you to call our office.