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Updated on 31 May 2021
What should I be looking out for?
Since the first outbreak, Covid-19 virus has not only brought the whole world to a standstill, but also brought with it an abundance of confusion. With continuous mutation of the virus and the spread of new variants (UK, South Africa, India etc.), there is still no end in sight.
We all have to get used to the “new norm” as long as Covid-19 infections are still rampant in other parts of the world, and at the same time, continue to carry on with our daily lives and get our (and our kids') dental health sorted as much as possible. So do you know how to choose a dental clinic safely to protect your loved ones from the ever-changing landscape? If you or your child has some dental problem, is it safe to visit a dentist now? Are you anxious about going to the dentist during this time, when the coronavirus is still part of our everyday life?
How to choose a dental clinic safely?
Call ahead and ask the clinic questions before deciding. It can be like the questions outlined below:
- Is the dental clinic following the latest guidelines set out by your local health authorities, like Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore, or CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in the US?
- How will you ensure my child’s safety?
- Does the clinic conduct Virtual consultation or tele-consultations?
- Does the clinic conduct tele-screening of all patients prior to the visit?
- How is the dental team monitoring themselves and other patients?
- Is there any additional ventilation system or installation of heavy duty high volume suction machines to prevent the spread of aerosol that is usually generated by dental equipment? Any HEPA-filter or air purifier installed?
- What additional infection control measures has the clinic implemented?
- How does the clinic clean up the equipment, treatment chairs, and disinfection of the room after each patient? What about high touch point areas?
- What additional safety-precautions is the clinic taking?
- What advice do I get to prepare myself or my child for the dental visit?
How to prepare your child for a Dental visit?
In some countries or states with lower or no local community spread, many dental clinics may be more relaxed with their safety measures. Bear in mind that the COVID-19 virus (and its variants) is still a threat in many parts of the world; it is still advisable that you are aware of the safety-protocols that need to be in place to protect you and your family.
- The use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
- Prepare to come in 10-15 minutes before your appointment for pre-screening. Health declaration, temperature checks, contact tracing registration, hand sanitizing is required. Surgical face mask wear is mandatory at all times.
- Only one accompanying person, parent or caretaker will be allowed to accompany the patient. Older children should be prepared to go in alone. Other accompanying persons should be prepared to wait in outside the clinic.
- Ask your dentist beforehand if you can accompany your child all the way into the procedure room or not. Some practices (like ours) have installed video cameras so parents can watch their child if they’re not allowed inside.
- Carry a toy or a book to keep your child engaged so they don’t get nervous.
- A one-minute medicated mouth rinse prior to any dental procedure to minimise bacterial load and spread. Children may be advised to brush their teeth before coming into the office.
- Rubber dams and effective high volume suction may be used during the procedure to minimise aerosol generation which maybe louder and stronger than what your child is used to. Make sure they are aware and comfortable before they go in.
- To minimize the number of appointments, dentists may perform multiple procedures in a single sitting which may result in a longer than usual appointment. Be sure that your child is well fed and the appointment is at a time they are less likely to be cranky.
What if I or one of our close family members is unwell?
If you or anyone in your family is feeling sort of unwell, with any mild flu-like or Covid-19 virus type symptoms (fever, dry cough, tiredness etc.):
- See a medical doctor immediately.
- To help support the safety of everyone around at the dental office, call the clinic and reschedule your child’s appointment to 2-3 weeks later.
- Try to do self-quarantine to minimise the spread of the infection, even if it’s a not a COVID-19 virus infection.
- If your child is in pain, a virtual call with the dentist can be arranged to assess the situation and recommend the next course of action accordingly.
Vaccinate, Vaccinate, Vaccinate! Get your family members vaccinated as soon as possible. Continue practicing social distancing, minimise gathering in large groups, wearing protective face masks, and practice hand good hygiene… sanitize, sanitize, sanitize.
The last but not least….
Do you know that COVID-19 virus’s official scientific name is SARS-CoV2. Sounds familiar? Yes, this is because COVID-19 virus is a genetic cousin of the infamous notorious coronavirus which caused the SARS outbreak in 2002 (SARS-CoV)! So let’s not put our guard down as the pandemic is not over yet. Protect our family and children, stay vigilant, and stay safe.
About Our Clinic:
At Dr. Catherine Lee Orthodontics, we have a dedicated team of doctors and staff whose skills and experiences help our patients enjoy the process of creating healthier, beautiful smiles. We have a strong focus on growing children, and especially welcome those who need orthodontics and dentistry for kids. For a consultation, contact us at enquiries@DrCatherineLeeOrthodontics.com.
