Much like the rest of the world, Tampa dentists have faced brand new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) first asked dentists to stop all non-urgent appointments. Then they recommended practicing good judgment when providing care for patients within the context of the COVID-19 virus impact. The staff at North Pointe Dental Associates take these guidelines seriously and are taking precautions every day. COVID-19 Safety at Dentist Appointments are the safest way to protect both dentist and patients.
Should I be worried about the spread of the virus while at the dentist?
Many of Tampa’s best dentists say their patients have been asking if it is safe to schedule their next appointment and what is being done to ensure their safety. After much strategizing and planning, dentists at North Pointe Dental Associates have done more than what was already required to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes providing hand sanitizers, flask guards at the front desk, and touchless credit card processing. Here are some answers to common questions that Tampa dentists have received during the pandemic.
Is the dentist’s office safe?
Even before the emergence of the COVID-19 virus, there were many regulations and guidelines all health professionals had to follow in order to ensure patient safety. For example, all employees routinely washed hands and sterilized all reusable tools, making sure to never reuse certain gear and needles. Because the COVID-19 virus spreads through close contact and through respiratory droplets when someone sneezes or coughs, dentists have taken several extra measures to prevent the virus from spreading.
What measures are dentists taking to ensure my safety?
Tampa dentists and staff at North Pointe Dental Associates take temperature checks for both patients and employees upon their arrival. They have secured a hand-washing station for patients, as well as a short screening questionnaire that patients fill out with disposable pencils before entering the waiting room. In the waiting room, chairs are clearly marked to ensure social distancing and have plastic covers that are frequently changed. Patients can also wait in their cars if they prefer, in which case personnel will notify them via phone call when the dentist is ready to see them.
Advanced air filtration units have been placed in operatories and the waiting room, and air conditioners now contain UV light micro pure air purifiers. In addition to sterilization procedures, North Pointe Dental Associates use a fogger with hypochlorous acid, a food-safe disinfection solution used in surgical centers.
Of course, masks are required in all of the common areas to ensure everyone’s safety, and NPDA employees wear additional personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, medical gowns, hair coverings, and face shields.
How do I know my safety is a priority at the dentist office?
A new survey indicates that less than 1 percent of dentists nationwide have tested positive for COVID-19. This should not come as a surprise, as North Tampa dentists have been experts in infection control, pioneering universal precautions since the mid-1980s.
The staff at North Pointe Dental Associates pride themselves in making the safety of their patients and the quality of services top priorities. With some of the best dentists in Tampa on board, they have provided the highest quality of care to ensure patient satisfaction since 1976. They are taking added steps to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their patients in these challenging times. Call (813) 961-1727 and their friendly personnel will be happy to answer all your questions and concerns about COVID-19 safety at dentist appointments, as well as schedule your next appointment.
