How has COVID-19 Affected Dentistry?

COVID-19 has had a major impact on the lives of people across the globe. In the United States, we were initially told to stay home. After a time, though, states began opening up various services, and in many places the dentist was among the first places to reopen. Because of protective measures put into place under the direction of the CDC, though, the process of going to the dentist has changed in many ways. Here, we discuss some of the changes that have occurred and what you should expect from your next dental appointment.

Have people started going back to the dentist? Yes. People who have put off cleanings because of fear of the coronavirus are now facing a need for more restorative work. If you need a checkup, a cleaning, or other preventive dental services, now is the time to schedule an appointment and go back.

Here’s a fact that might surprise you: more people than ever are heading to the dentist for elective procedures. It could be because people are spending their stimulus checks on self-improvement. Cosmetic work like full bridges and dental implants are among the procedures being scheduled with increasing frequency.

So, if you do schedule a dental appointment, what can you expect when you arrive? If it’s been a while since you last went to the dentist, you may notice that a few things have changed. You’ll be encouraged to fill out new patient forms online and call ahead to announce your arrival to the dental staff. You may be asked to wait in your car, or you may be able to into the office, depending upon how your particular dentist is handling the waiting room. Unless you need a helper, you will need to go to your appointment alone.

Once you go inside, you’ll be given a quick health screening. The dental team will ask you questions to determine if you have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath. They may perform a contactless temperature check, and they’ll ask you if you’ve come into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 or had symptoms. If your answer to any of those questions is yes, you’ll need to reschedule your appointment. If not, the appointment will go ahead as scheduled. You may be asked to settle your bill before your treatment.

Certain measures have been put into place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. For example, the dental staff and office team will be wearing personal protective equipment. There will be hand sanitizing stations available, and you’ll be asked to keep your mask on until your treatment.

If you’re ready to find a team committed to your beautiful smile and to keeping you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, Belmont Dental Group is ready to meet you! We cover all kinds of dental care, from teeth cleaning to cosmetic dentistry to emergency care, and we believe in helping our patients be partners in their own dental health. Call us today at (617) 484-2431 or contact us through our website for a consultation.