One of the many unintended consequences of COVID-19 has affected our oral health. More precisely, going to the dentist.

On 24 March 2020, the global coronavirus pandemic forced the closure of all the dental practices in Denver, except for a few medical care centers. Thousands of patients have their surgeries and procedures rescheduled for the following months.

This began to improve in October, as dental clinics in Denver were given permission to reopen.

Like the retail industry, dental operations had to adjust to their once ‘usual’ daily routines. Dental practices are being given a set of guidelines focused on the most recent research to assist them to reopen safely.

Some adjustments have been introduced to ensure your safety and convenience. This is a rundown of cherry creek dentist Denver and what you may expect.

Why are Dental Procedures Different?

Numerous improvements have been made regarding dental practices reopening after the lifting of the COVID-19 lockout. This is attributed to the possibility of virus spread from aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs), including traditional dental procedures such as ultrasonic scaling and the use of the dental drill for fillings.

Aerosols generated during these procedures will suspend in the air and fly up to 1.5 meters from the source. Therefore, only patients who exhibit no indications or effects of COVID-19 may visit their dentist.

Another significant factor to remember in dental practices that many patients are seen regularly in a confined physical space. Dentists often operate in close proximity with their patients, which adds to the possibility of spreading the infection. With this in consideration, numerous reforms to dental procedures have been implemented to ensure the wellbeing of all patients and personnel.

Arrival adjustments

Before your appointment with the dentist in Denver, all dental offices can email you to evaluate your health status. They will inquire about your well-being as well as the health of others with whom you live. Nobody with COVID-19 symptoms would be permitted to attend the dental practice.

Appointments may be taken only over the internet, and dental offices request that you do not visit without an appointment. You will note that their doors are closed as a safeguard, simply ring the doorbell or call reception, and they’ll let you in.

It is preferable to arrive alone and on schedule (rather than early). This would cut the amount of time you spend in the waiting area.

While you wait

Once you reach reception, you will notice a few changes. The first possibility is that a staff member will be waiting for your arrival to take your temperature. This is most often done using an ear thermometer to screen fever.

On arrival, you can be requested to sanitize your hands. Additionally, there would be a security shield at reception, similar to what you find now a day when shopping.

You will be required to wear a face mask and perhaps shoe covers. Additionally, certain activities may require you to place your personal belongings in a clear pocket.

When you visit the waiting area, you will find that it’s been reorganized for social distancing. Assure yourself that all items are washed, disinfected, and replaced regularly.

Modifications made in the way how dental teams operate

The most critical factor in understanding the aftermath of coronavirus is how dental professionals ensure your safety through recovery.

To begin, the treatment area will be adequately ventilated. This requires maintaining non-recirculating ventilation so that suspended air can disembark the space as soon as possible.

You will note that the dental staff is carrying safety gear, like PPE.

Additionally, the tiny sink beside the chair can be removed or concealed. This eliminates the need for rinsing. Other than that, suction can be used to clean the mouth.

Dental practices will employ devices and procedures that minimize the chance of spray. Emergency operations involving elevated volumes of spray will take place in a separate space.

Non-emergency surgeries can be postponed, and dentists are extending the time between patients. This enables them to disinfect the recovery space between appointments.

When you are about to leave

The last step to your new dental journey occurs before you are about to depart.

It is better to pay with something like a credit or debit card wherever possible (contactless payment method) and sign papers with your pen.

Typically, you will be given a sheet of paper or brochure that contains guidance or directions about your care. It’ll no longer be supported in the near future. Instead, you will be emailed or texted with all the necessary details as a reminder.

Lastly, if you were ordered to submit your belongings upon entry, you can now receive them back.

Conclusion

Please remain at home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms (fever, coughing, or trouble breathing) or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19. If you are ill and have a scheduled dental appointment, contact the dentist to tell about your symptoms, reschedule, or inquire about alternative treatment choices.

It is crucial that you, as a patient, feel reassured by the steps taken. All improvements have been taken to ensure the welfare of both personnel and patients.

For those who live in areas other than Denver, where dental practices are already restricted, all of these initiatives may be implemented until your practices are cleared to restart operations.

Contact the dental office to inquire about any improvements to your scheduled appointment. They would be able to inform you of any development and set your mind at rest.