Before the COVID-19 pandemic, orthodontists and their team members had a fairly simple protocol for preparing to see patients. They would thoroughly wash their hands, put on fresh personal protective equipment (PPE), and be ready to go. Now, however, additional measures are necessary to safeguard the health and wellness of both your orthodontist in Canfield and you. In this post, we’ll discuss some specific steps that your orthodontic team is taking to make sure you stay safe during your appointments.
Safety Champion
Every day, a team member is designated to oversee the office’s safety measures. This person may be the one to greet you when you arrive for your appointment and answer all of your questions regarding how the orthodontic staff is working to fight COVID-19. They also encourage social distancing and remain alert for any potential health and safety hazards.
Daily Health Checks
Your orthodontic team members love to see you, but they understand that they should stay home if they are exhibiting any possible symptoms of COVID-19. That is why they willingly submit to a quick daily health check before they begin their work. This health screening includes a contactless temperature check and a few simple questions.
Changing Clothes at Work
In the past, you might have seen members from your orthodontist’s team wearing their scrubs at the grocery store or post office. That, however, has changed. Now, they arrive at work in regular clothes, then change into freshly cleaned scrubs at the office. They change out of their scrubs before they go home. This minimizes the chance that contagions will attach to their clothes while they are coming to or going from work.
Additional PPE
In the past, PPE usually just included gloves, masks, and other items as necessary. Now, though, you may notice that your orthodontist and their assistants are wearing face shields and disposable coats and hats. Even the front office staff members are now required to wear masks.
Increased Cleaning Measures
Orthodontic and dental offices have always been some of the cleanest places in the country. Now, that is truer than ever. By spacing out appointments, team members have time to thoroughly clean treatment rooms between each patient. A deep cleaning every evening after the office closes ensures that it is ready to receive patients the following morning. These measures are in addition to the strict cleaning and sterilization protocols that have always been a key part of your orthodontic team’s operations.
Your orthodontist is ready to serve you during this time of COVID-19, and they are committed to doing so as safety as possible. You can visit them with total confidence that they are doing everything in their power to protect you.
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich is an orthodontist in Canfield with more than a decade of experience in her field. She earned her dental degree from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, after which she obtained her Master of Science degree in oral biology from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Dr. Mikolich and our team are dedicated to patient health and safety during this time of COVID-19. To learn more specifics of how we are protecting patients or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 330-967-4110.