Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is on everyone’s mind these days, particularly parents whose primary concern is their children’s well-being. And while infection control has always been a top priority for dental offices, those protocols have become even more strict since the pandemic began. Keep reading to learn how a pediatric dentist in Hinsdale prepares for appointments to ensure that kids are getting dental care as safely as possible. They combine recommendations from the CDC and the ADA with an ongoing commitment to health and safety, so you can be confident that your child is getting outstanding dental care with minimal risk of exposure.
Pre-Screenings For Staff and Patients
Each day as staff members arrive they receive a no-contact temperature check and answer a set of questions to make sure they’re ready to provide care that day. Similarly, patients will also receive a temperature screening and answer a few quick questions about their recent activities and physical health.
Additional Training For the Team
Every member of the dental team already comes to the table with training on infection control. But additional training has been provided to make sure each individual has the information and awareness they need to keep the risk of exposure as low as possible.
Designated Safety Champions
Each day, a different staff member is designated as a Safety Champion to monitor the team’s adherence to dental safety protocols in Hinsdale and make sure all rules are being followed. This includes social distancing, greeting and screening patients, and answering questions on a daily basis. The Safety Champion helps to create an ongoing “culture of safety” for everyone in the office.
Changing Into Work Clothes at Work
Before the pandemic, it was common to see dental professionals in their scrubs running errands before or after work. Now, they change into clean scrubs on-site when they arrive and put their non-work clothes back on before leaving.
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
PPE such as masks and gloves has always been a big part of safety and sanitation in a dental setting. Now, dentists and their staff are using additional protective gear that may include different or more protective masks, a face shield, and HEPA- grade filters in each room. Even the front desk staff and every patient over age two (who are able) are required to wear a mask at all times (except during treatment of course).
All of these additional protocols are part of the “new normal” and are a big part of preventing the spread of COVID-19. They’re just one more way a pediatric dentist is making the health and well-being of patients, staff and the larger community a top priority!
About the Author
Dr. Mira Albert is a board-certified pediatric dentist in Hinsdale who is truly passionate about her work. She and her team have put a lot of thought and energy into maintaining a safe environment for their patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and have an ongoing commitment to their health and well-being. For more information about how her office prepares for appointments, or if you have any questions, you can reach Dr. Albert by clicking here.