These days, you can’t turn on the news, scroll through social media, or even talk to a friend without hearing the phrase “social distancing,” and for good reason. Social distancing helps maintain the proper amount of space between people to avoid the transfer of germs, including the ones that cause COVID-19. Believe it or not, it’s possible to practice social distancing at the dentist’s office. Here are a few ways your dentist in Newark is implementing that practice and keeping you safe from COVID-19.
Virtual Waiting Rooms
Waiting rooms used to be full of crowded chairs as well as magazines, toys, and other activities that people frequently touched. As a result, the area could quickly become a breeding ground for germs. Nowadays, your dentist is having you wait in your car instead. When you arrive at the office, you’ll check in with your phone and one of their staff members will call or text you when the dentist is ready to see you. That way, you can bypass the reception area and head straight back into the treatment room.
Spaced-Out Patient Scheduling
Simply put, your dentist is not seeing quite as many patients in a day as they used to. This allows for ample time for patients to arrive and leave without accidentally making contact with another patient. It also gives the staff plenty of time to thoroughly clean the office in between appointments.
Installed Clear Barriers
Your dentist has installed hard plastic guards at strategic points throughout the office. They help block the transmission of airborne particles, which is massively beneficial since the coronavirus is largely spread through respiratory droplets that travel through the air. The guards are also cleaned at regular intervals.
One-Way Traffic in Treatment Area
Helpful signs have been placed throughout the office to let patients know which way to go before, during, and after their appointments. They create a one-way traffic flow. This way, patients won’t bump into each other and spread germs.
Fewer Chairs in Reception Area
If for some reason the staff gives you the go-ahead to enter the office and your dentist isn’t ready for you, you can sit in the waiting room. There will be fewer chairs that are placed farther apart to help enforce social distancing.
If you have a dental appointment coming up, don’t worry. Your dentist goes above and beyond to enforce social distancing and prevent the spread of dangerous germs. You should be able to receive the care you need without any worries.
About the Author
Dr. Donald Bond is a dentist in Newark, DE who enjoys treating patients of all ages in the most conservative manner possible. He achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. His professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Delaware State Dental Society, and the University of Delaware Health Services. His practice takes every precaution they can to ensure your safety while you’re under their care. To learn more about these safety practices, visit Dr. Bond’s website or call (302) 444-8985.