Wondering if your dentist in Jupiter is implementing new protocols to keep everyone safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic? Like most dental professionals throughout the country, additional steps are being taken to better protect you and staff members from the virus, one of which is wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). So which ones are your dental team relying on to safeguard them from harmful bacteria and viruses like COVID-19? Your dentist explains.
Germ-Free Hands
Gloves have been and will continue to be one of the most pivotal pieces of PPE a dentist and their team can wear. Not only do they keep dirt accumulations and germs from entering into a patient’s mouth, but they protect against bodily fluids (i.e. saliva, blood) from coming into contact with their skin and nails. Because COVID-19 can be easily transmitted through aerosols and possibly touch, it is best to keep gloves on and avoid any potential for contamination.
Facial Barrier from Bacteria
Viruses can be passed along as airborne particles that either fall to the ground or enter into the eyes, nose, or mouth of a nearby individual. The proximity between dentist and patient requires there to be a barrier of some sort to protect against anything that could easily lead to a dangerous infection. No matter if your dental hygienist is performing an aerosol-generating procedure or not, you will likely see them wearing a face mask and shield as an extra precaution.
Protecting Personal Clothing
Surprisingly, bacteria can cling to clothing for a longer period of time than originally thought. With this new information provided by researchers, dentists are now requiring staff to change into and out of work attire while at the office. But that isn’t enough. To keep these scrubs and personal clothing as bacteria-free as possible, disposable gowns and/or lab coats will be worn by your dental team to protect against splashes and sprays during an appointment.
Safeguarding the Eyes
Having healthy hands and superb vision are two of the most important things a dentist can have. Not only do they need to be able to physically handle the instruments required for regular treatment, but they must be able to clearly see problem areas of the mouth that are visible to the naked eye. To avoid accidental infection of any kind, your dentist will now wear protective eyewear. It is far too easy for fluids and aerosols to transfer into this area of the face, which is why these clear, plastic glasses are one of the most important pieces of PPE they can wear right now.
If you want to know more about these PPE or what else your dentist is doing to prepare for your upcoming visit, make sure to contact a member of the staff before your appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Amiee Vaughn earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the
University of Louisville School of Dentistry. She then pursued a one-year
General Practice Residency at the University of Kentucky, receiving extensive
training in dental implants, oral surgery, and sedation dentistry. Dr. Vaughn
and the team at Jupiter Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry believe in better protecting
you and staff from harmful bacteria and viruses, which is why they are
implementing safety protocols amid the COVID-19 outbreak. To understand what
steps they’re taking to maintain a healthy, germ-free environment, visit our website or call
(561) 747-7172.