Since COVID-19 began, you have probably stepped up your game when it comes to handwashing, cleaning, and other hygienic practices. Well so has your dentist in McMinnville. Although they are already abiding by the strictest sanitation guidelines, this infectious disease has seen dental office team members going above and beyond to meet and exceed the guidelines put forth by various organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). To learn what it is that your dentist is doing to ensure COVID-19 doesn’t infiltrate their office, read on.
Controlling the Possibility of Infection
There are certain protocols your dental office is following to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Apart from wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and using proper handwashing techniques, they are also:
- Following all manufacturer’s instructions as they pertain to thoroughly sanitizing and disinfecting dental instruments and other materials/equipment that are non-disposable.
- Performing routine cleanings and following all disinfection procedures to ensure all surfaces, materials, and equipment are ready for the next patient. This includes performing a pre-clean with water and cleaner before applying an EPA-approved disinfectant. Anything that is frequently touched will be disinfected.
- Laundering anything that requires reuse (i.e. masks, lab coats/gowns) according to CDC guidelines
Feeling Safe When You Arrive
Although it is natural to feel somewhat unnerved by the idea of visiting your dentist during this time, remember that their office is one of the cleanest places you can visit right now. To remain licensed and open to the public, they must adhere to necessary safety and sanitation protocols. If you can rest easy about anything, know that your dentist is doing everything possible to make sure you as well as their staff remain healthy.
Additional safety precautions you can expect include:
- The immediate sanitizing of all deliveries from carriers and/or dental suppliers, which will be accepted outside, not indoors
- The use of a rubber dam to better contain aerosol spray. Since the virus can be easily transmitted this way, your dentist and dental team will take extra precautions to limit the usage of this equipment but also use appropriate instruments to minimize spray.
While things may look a bit different the next time you visit your dentist’s office, the one thing you can guarantee will be the same is the warm and welcome feeling you will receive when you arrive. Although it may be delivered behind a mask, these additional safety and sanitation efforts will ensure you have a pleasant experience that leaves you virus-free when you return home.
About the Author
Dental offices throughout the country are following the highest standards when it comes to sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces, equipment, and instruments. Dr. Natalya Ramsay and her team at Evans Street Dental want to put your mind at ease by reminding you that their office is taking great care to maintain a healthy and clean environment. To find out what additional precautions are being taken to keep everyone safe and virus-free, visit our website or call (503) 472-1402.