How Safe Is Visiting Dentist Near Me During Covid-19?

At present, the complete world is suffering due to Covid-19 pandemic. These are unprecedented times, and the nation has been put under strict lockdown.

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing the way we take care of our health, and dental care is no exemption. In a highly collaborative field like dentistry, including close patient contact, the risks of infection are high. The reason for this is the way the virus spreads, that is, mainly by means of respiratory drops. This has constrained all portions of dentistry to reconsider infection control practices.

As the lockdown rules are starting to ease all over the nation, dental clinics are also reopening. But, is it safe to make an appointment, or better to wait for some more time?

Here’s a list of things you should know about visiting a dentist at this moment, during these uncertain times.

Is it Safe to Visit a Dental Hospital Now?

Even before the pandemic, dental centres were maintained with strict hygiene practices. It has been a protocol for a long time for all best dental hospitals to wear protective gear like gloves. Surgical masks and goggles for eye protection to reduce the risk of transmitting infections from one person to another.

Nowadays, due to COVID-19, there are extra safety precautions, most of them suggested by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) itself and with the latest enhanced precautions, the best dental clinics are safe to visit.

Do I Need a Prior Appointment?

In the present situations, it is advisable to take a prior appointment before visiting a dentist near me for the following reasons:

• Minimize more number of patients in the waiting area
• Minimize waiting time
• Prior appointment is mandatory

What Precautions Are Been Taken By The Best Dental Hospitals and Staff From COVID-19?

Safety is the utmost concern, particularly in the present scenario, as dentists enter the new COVID-19 world. Dental clinics today are taking precautions, which are advised by the MoH&FW:

• Appointments required
• Screening, temp check required
• Eliminating shared spaces
• Increasing sanitation
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Changing systems to avoid aerosols
• Disinfect surfaces between visits

What Precautions Should A Patient Take While Visiting a Dental Hospital?

• Take pre and post-appointment screenings
• Always wear a mask except during the treatment
• Never use the restroom outside the house
• Adhere to the appointment time and try not to get an attendant
• Not to wear a wristwatch, jewellery, and other accessories
• Online payments through wallets or QR codes need to be used instead of cash or cards

What Can Be Done Meanwhile?

Coronavirus will be with us for a long time. So it’s important to look after your health and oral care by maintaining a healthy diet and oral hygiene schedule.

• Brush twice a day
• Use Fluoride toothpaste
• Avoid sticky foods
• Drink loads of water