Dentist Offices Reopening: What To Expect

BY Dr. McDowell  |  June 1st, 2020
Dr. McDowell
Dr. McDowell has always been focused on using the latest technology to improve the patient experience. From radiation-free imaging to laser dentistry, he has always been ahead of the curve and is dedicated to improving the practice of dentistry one ..

Many dental offices have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we still don’t know when this pandemic will entirely end, some businesses have begun to reopen with essential safety precautions in place.

Dental offices, considering the high amount of contact, have been closed for most nonemergency visits, but some think that they’re finally beginning to reopen.

We’re all wondering what it will look like when things start to open, and for some, it’s time to head back into the dentist. Today we’ll be breaking down what you can expect from dentist offices as they reopen and how you can be prepared.

If you’d like to see more in-depth guidelines provided by the CDC and ADA, you can view the document here.

Watch the below video to learn more about what we’re doing to reopen.

Before Your Appointment

You might feel as though dental offices are being extremely careful during this time. That’s a good thing, and it means that you’ll be safer when you visit.

When making an appointment, you might receive a phone call from someone at the dentist’s office asking if you’ve had any symptoms related to COVID-19. In most cases, these questions will be simple and easy to answer, but don’t be alarmed if you’re asked the same questions again when you arrive at your appointment.

Arriving at Your Appointment

Upon arriving at your appointment, you might notice things are slightly different than they were before. Hand sanitizer will be available in the waiting room, and most, if not all, magazines and other items will be removed. Consider checking with your dental office and asking whether or not they would like you to wear a mask for your visit.

If the office is busy, you may be asked to wait outside while they prepare for you to come in. This isn’t because they don’t like you; it’s simply to help reduce the amount of time that you’ll be in close contact with others.

After Your Appointment

After each visit, all the dental tools will be thoroughly disinfected as well as all surfaces such as the chair, counter, and any other nearby areas. Any chairs, pens, clipboards, or other items used in the waiting room will also be disinfected promptly to help prevent the spread of any germs from person to person or surface to surface.

How to Maintain Oral Health without the Dentist

We recently published an article with only this in mind. How can the general public be sure to maintain their oral health without the dentist? Because COVID-19 might still be keeping you from visiting the dentist’s office, here are some tips to help you keep your teeth clean and your mouth healthy.

Develop Good Oral Habits

Brushing your teeth once a day might seem like a good habit, but you really should be brushing 2 to 3 times a day to help keep your teeth in pristine condition. Ignoring the need to develop proper brushing and flossing habits will only lead to long term dental problems. Develop good habits that can help keep you out of the dentist’s office.

It’s also important that you floss regularly. While most people completely neglect the need to floss, you’ll learn that good flossing habits lead to healthier gums and mouth.

Don’t Neglect Your Tongue

There is plenty that your tongue can tell you about your oral health. Be sure to brush your tongue when you’re brushing your teeth, and don’t neglect it. The tongue can be the source of bad breath and can lead to many underlying health problems if neglected for too long.

Pay Attention to Your Diet

Diet, especially during the pandemic when many people are staying home, is important to pay attention to. Eating surgery or acidic foods will wear your teeth down more quickly and speed up any tooth decay that you might already have. Consider having healthy snacks like vegetables, and be sure to drink lots of water.

Don’t use tobacco products. Tobacco products are one of the leading causes of gum disease in adults and can lead to a multitude of problems. Do your very best to stay away from tobacco products.

Visiting the Dentist

When it is time to finally visit the dentist safely again, there is no way of knowing whether or not similar safety precautions will be in place. But, it’s safe to assume that you can expect there to be precautions in place for some time.

If you’re looking for a dental office to visit, consider choosing Wayzata Dental. We’re located in Wayzata, not far from the Twin Cities, and have worked hard to provide a safe and enjoyable dental experience for our patients.

Book an appointment with us today!

Dr. McDowell
Dr. McDowell has always been focused on using the latest technology to improve the patient experience. From radiation-free imaging to laser dentistry, he has always been ahead of the curve and is dedicated to improving the practice of dentistry one ..