Health and Dental Care in the Time of Coronavirus
Dr. Amin Samadian has always put his patients’ safety and health above all else, and while closures and shelter-in-place orders are necessary in times to flatten the curve of COVID-19 patients, we know that your oral health still needs attention. So how do you know what measures your medical providers and dentists need to adopt to ensure your safety and health while you see to your dental health or tend to emergencies?
Staggered appointments and social distancing in the waiting area are great ways for your healthcare provider to minimize potential exposures. There will be fewer patients in waiting rooms, and seating will be, at minimum, 6ft apart.
Aerosol disinfecting measures are vital in dentistry, regardless of the virus. Microorganism aerosols and splatter are major concerns simply due to the nature of dental care, so dentist’s offices are uniquely positioned to disinfect the environment already. High-efficiency air filtration, high volume suctions and sterilization measures reduce aerosolized infectious materials. Equipment is already sterilized between patients, and personal protection equipment (PPE) is always provided. High powered suction also prevents a significant amount of aerosolization. Ammonia or enzymatic detergent water should be used daily to flush suction lines. Disinfecting or covering commonly used handles, controls, and handpieces with protective plastic prevents even more cross-contamination for the safety of both the patients and dental professionals.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is very important to create a clean environment. Dr. Samadian uses protective eyewear, mouth- and nose-covering N95 facemasks, gloves, and products that protect the nasal and air passages during dental procedures.
Disinfecting treatment rooms and office spaces is also critical. Each exam room will be disinfected between patients, and office space should be addressed more frequently than once a day during the pandemic. With these measures in place, Dr. Samadian’s office is safe to attend appointments and continue to pursue the healthiest smile you can. There are additional precautions that can also be taken.