Even though most people are self-isolating, it can still be scary to go out in public to complete necessary tasks or receive emergency healthcare. The threat of COVID-19 is prevalent, which is why the CDC has recommended a standard set of precautionary guidelines for all professionals to take, including dental practices and other care providers. If you need emergency treatment during these unsure times, you can rest assured that professionals are doing everything in their power to keep their staff and patients safe. Read on to learn about the preventive measures they’re taking to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Postponing All Elective Procedures
The ADA and CDC have recommended that dental practices across the country suspend all elective procedures, including checkups and cleanings, and cosmetic and restorative treatments, to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to patients and staff. Because it’s spread by droplet transfer to the mucous membrane (eyes, nose, and mouth), dental professionals were at a high risk of contracting the virus. With decreased foot traffic through the office by only focusing on providing emergency dental care, you can rest assured that you won’t be at an incredibly high risk of contracting any type of illness.
Dental Office Precautions
Although dental practices are postponing most dental treatments, they have still boosted their hygiene and disinfection efforts to better care for their emergency patients in a completely safe environment. Here are some standard precautions that your dental practice is following to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Following proper hand hygiene
- Using masks, gloves, and protective eyewear
- Sanitizing all surfaces and equipment used for treatment
- Sharps safety
- Safe injection practices
With these precautionary measures in place, your emergency dentist will be able to treat you in a sterile environment to keep you, as well as their staff, safe.
Screening Patients Before They Visit
Before patients visit their emergency dentist, they’re also being screened over the phone for any type of illness. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and require emergency dental care, your dentist and healthcare provider will work together to determine which facilities can provide you with the best possible care while preventing the spread of the virus. So, if you’re awaiting an appointment, expect a phone call from your dentist to briefly screen for any illness.
The Importance of Seeking Emergency Dental Care
Even though these times are scary and unsure, it’s important to contact your emergency dentist for care if you experience any symptoms that cause you pain or seem out-of-the-ordinary. The longer you wait to address these issues, the worse they can typically get. Your dental professional is doing everything they can to prevent the spread of any illness and is taking additional precautionary measures to keep their patients and staff safe, so you can rest-assured during your appointment that your health is highly valued.
About the Author
Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana has been working in the dental field for over a decade and has mastered a variety of dental procedures. He has also completed advanced additional training, allowing him to provide high-quality and thorough emergency care to each of his patients. For questions or to schedule an emergency dental appointment, visit TrueCare Dentistry’s website or call 469-399-7288.