Long-term quarantine has forced millions of people to neglect their oral health. People are suffering from decay, infections, gum disease, and other serious issues and need help now. But is it safe to go back to the dentist? You bet it is! As dentistry adapts to the Covid-19 era, professionals are following federal guidelines that are established by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

The New Look of Dentistry

A visit to the dentist’s office today looks different compared to pre-Covid days. Now you are greeted by the staff, hygienists, and dentists who are wearing masks, gowns, hair covers, face shields, and gloves. One of the main differences you will notice as soon as you sit in the dental chair is the absence of aerosol-spewing power equipment. Instead, hygienists put their skills to work by using hand tools specially designed to remove tartar and plaque. 

What to Expect During Your Office Visit

• Say goodbye to complimentary coffee and tea in the waiting room – Self-serve coffee stations in the waiting room were a comforting go-to for many patients. Unfortunately due to the pandemic, this luxury has been eliminated to prevent the spread of Covid through shared items at the station. 
• No more magazines to read – Patients who calmed their nerves by reading a complimentary magazine in the waiting room, will no longer have the option. However, most dental offices allow their patients to bring along their own reading materials to keep them occupied while they wait. 
• Where is the waiting room – Some dental offices only allow one patient to sit in the waiting room while others ask patients to remain in their car until their appointment time. 
• Covid-19 testing – Patients are often asked to go through Covid-19 testing prior to arriving for their appointment. You should also be prepared to be virtually screened to confirm if you have been exposed to Covid-19 or have any symptoms. 
• Plexiglass shields – Plexiglass shields are installed at the front desk and other areas in the office to protect the staff and patients. 
• Longer appointments – Most office visits will be longer compared to pre-Covid-19 days since hygienists are using hand tools instead of ultrasonic scalers.

Dr. Jacquie Smiles says, “Dentistry has successfully adapted to the Covid-19 era. Patients report feeling safe with the new improvements and safety measures set in place. Most importantly, patients are receiving the care they desperately need after months of neglect.” 

Visiting the dentist is on the top of the priority list for many people, especially those who have urgent needs. Long-term stress due to Covid-19 has caused many people to grind their teeth and clench their jaw which leads to chips and damage to teeth. Others have experienced serious issues during quarantine and were forced to live with the pain, self-medicate or use home remedies to lessen the pain and symptoms caused by poor oral care. 

If you are in need of dental care, you can feel confident and safe you are in good hands. Don’t hesitate, make your appointment today with Dr. Jacquie Smiles.

Schedule Your Appointment

Please contact Dr. Jacquie Smiles today to learn more about our orthodontic treatments and dental services in Monroe, NY. Please call 845-782-4288 or fill out the contact form to receive more information. Our office is conveniently located near 70 Gilbert Street, Suite 202 Monroe, NY 10950.