Staying at least six feet away from other people is one of the main ways in which you can protect both yourself and your community from the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. However, you might wonder if social distancing is possible in some situations, such as when you attend dental appointments. Your dentist in Rochester understands your concerns. In this article, we’ll discuss a few of the ways in which your dentist is helping you to avoid unnecessary contact with other people during these uncertain times.
A Virtual Waiting Room
Before the outbreak of COVID-19, you probably walked into the dentist’s office right after you parked your car outside their building. Now, though, you can wait safely in your vehicle while the dental team prepares to see you. Simply check-in for your appointment using your smartphone, and wait until you receive a notification that you can enter the office.
Changes to the Reception Area
If you do decide to head into the office to wait for your appointment, you will notice that fewer chairs are in the reception area. The chairs are spaced in a way that helps you to maintain a safe distance from anyone else who might be there.
Scheduling Adjustments
Your dental team works very efficiently. Before COVID-19, they may have scheduled patients in a way that allowed them to care for as many people as possible at any given time. But efficiency should never come at the expense of safety, which is why new scheduling policies are in place. Spacing out appointments means that there are fewer people in the dental office, a measure that makes social distancing easier for both patients and dental team members. There is even extra time scheduled between patients so the dental team is able to thoroughly clean the operatories before each appointment.
No Handshakes or Hugs
It is inevitable that you will have some contact with your dental team; that is the nature of dentistry. However, it is important to keep contact to a minimum. That is why policies are in place that prohibit handshakes, hugs, and other types of greetings that involve close physical contact. But don’t worry — your dental team will be happy to give you some hearty handshakes and hugs when COVID-19 is no longer a threat. In the meantime, you can greet them with a friendly wave or an elbow bump.
Social distancing may be challenging, but it is worth the effort! Rest assured that your dental team is doing everything in their power to keep you and your smile safe and healthy during this unprecedented time.
About the Author
Dr. Colin Gentling is a dentist in Rochester with well over 40 years of experience in his field. He is a member of numerous professional dental organizations, and he is a proud alumnus of the Dawson Academy. He and the entire team at Gentling Dental Care are working hard to ensure that patients stay as safe as possible during this pandemic season. To learn more about how we are promoting social distancing and combating COVID-19, contact us at (507) 288-7379.