COVID-19 hit, and our world forever changed. Although extensive research is still being conducted on this novel virus, experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have remained adamant about the importance of practicing social distancing and wearing a face covering. Therefore, the public has incorporated 6-foot distances and significant sanitation measures into their daily lives. However, newer safety guidelines, like rinsing before your appointment, are being met with some questions regarding whether it is necessary. Therefore, your dentist in Cumberland is here to share four extra precautions dentists are taking and how they help keep you protected.
Introducing No-Contact Temperature Checks
According to the CDC, a dry cough, tiredness, and fever are the three most common symptoms of COVID-19. Therefore, your dentist’s first line of protection is asking patients who are experiencing any of the above symptoms to kindly reschedule their appointment to a later date. As an added layer of safety, their team will also be conducting no-contact temperature checks for both their patients and their staff. While initially this may seem exhaustive, it is a small measure they can take to ensure their practice remains a safe, sterile environment.
Asking Patients to Wear Face Masks
The World Health Organization has remained firm in its stance that COVID-19 is an airborne virus that can be transmitted through droplets in the air when someone talks, sneezes, or coughs. To protect your eyes, nose, and mouth from being exposed, the public is being encouraged to avoid touching their face. However, the outward transmission is much easier to control through face coverings. Therefore, dental teams are asking patients to wear face masks when they are not in the treatment chair. Again, this is an additional layer of protection that is especially helpful if you or your dentist need to suddenly sneeze or cough.
Opting for Contactless Greetings
Did you know that social distancing measures are estimated to have prevented up to 185,000 deaths? While it is inevitable that you and your dentist will breach the 6-foot distance guideline while you’re in the treatment chair, contactless greetings are a simple way to make social distancing a practical reality. Therefore, make sure to opt for friendly waves and air high-fives over handshakes and hugs during the current pandemic.
Rinsing with Antimicrobial Mouthwash Beforehand
Although there currently isn’t any concrete research on the correlation between mouthwash and COVID-19, experts have decades of studies supporting the benefits of using antimicrobial rinse to kill bacteria. In fact, mouthwash can kill up to 99.9% of germs that cause plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath! To keep your oral health in pristine condition and prevent the transmission of germs during the treatment process, your dentist is asking you to rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash beforehand.
Separately, these measures can seem insignificant, but together they are a powerful combination. Therefore, make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions at your visit during COVID-19 so you can get the oral care you need without compromising your safety!
About the Practice
At Diamond Hill Dental, exemplary dental care and world-class customer service are what they do best! Backed by their team, Dr. Saba K. Abernethy and Dr. Fidelito Gabriel use their extensive experience, clinical expertise, and passion for dentistry to help their patients achieve beautiful, strong, healthy smiles. If you would like additional information on how they are using their education and training to keep their patients safe during COVID-19, visit their website or give them a call at 401-333-2700.