Can I Resume Routine Dental Care?
With the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 has been anything but routine. As the virus begins to wind down, and businesses begin to open, people are wondering, “Can I resume Routine Dental Care?” The short answer is yes, although there are several changes that patients should know. The goal of the Quinte Mall Dentist is to ensure that all patients and our staff remain as safe as possible.
Public Safety Precautions for COVID-19
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) advises that modifications for patient care are necessary to meet national social distancing guidelines. Additionally, scheduling changes to ensure fewer people in an office, preparing forms before visits, and other changes are expected. Patients may need to answer additional questions before appointments, follow safety protocols in waiting and exam rooms, and more. Each province has also enacted specific guidelines which may differ widely from one province to the next.
Quinte Mall Dentist is conducting routine dental care following the guidelines set forth for Ontario. Changes you may notice range from plexiglass partitions, enhanced air filtration systems, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as full gowns and face masks.
A list including 48 recommendations has been put forth by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Based on Directive #2 (May 26, 2020) from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the guideline mandates the wearing of PPE and vacancy periods for waiting rooms between procedures. Structural changes may also be necessary to maintain separation between treatment areas.
Patient and Dentist Office Responsibilities
Public Health Ontario has published a 17-page explanation of the risks of COVID-19 within the dental office setting. The publication also spells out the need for PPE and additional safety measures. While we don’t expect you to read all the information available on dental office safety (that is our job), we ask that you adhere to the protocols we have in place. Although the additional safety measures may seem excessive, our goal is your safety and the continuing safety of our staff.
Please contact our office before your appointment so that we may advise you of any changes occurring in our “normal” routine. Be patient with us — this is all new and different for our staff also. Finally, we ask that you help us keep our patients and staff safe and healthy during your visits.
Back to Your Question, “Can I Resume Routine Dental Care?”
Yes, but be aware that it may seem not quite “routine” due to the safety protocols in place. Call to schedule your appointment or schedule using our online portal.
Phone: (613) 962-8626
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Our staff will advise you of any changes since your last visit. They may ask additional questions about your health and household. We ask that you understand that our concern is for your safety and that of our staff. Even if the guidelines seem excessive to you, please follow them. Because we deal with a significant number of patients with differing situations, our policies reflect the safest practice for the weakest patient.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Tags: Can I Resume Routine Dental Care?, dental care after COVID-19, Ontario COVID-19 restrictions
