COVID has changed dentistry. We review the changes that have taken place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and how they will affect your next dental appointment. This is what to expect during your next visit to your Clackamas dentist.
Prioritizing Emergencies
We are working to get urgent needs taken care of ASAP. If you are experiencing discomfort, please contact us so we can make it a priority.
Risk Assessment
The CDC and the Oregon Health Authority have both recommended balancing risk v. benefit for medical appointments. This means that patients with chronic health conditions or over the age of 60 should consider the potential for transmission when leaving their home. This is particularly true if you have a suppressed immune system or underlying cardiac condition.
Am I allowed to have an appointment if I am in a high-risk category?
Yes. The decision to have an appointment is up to each patient. We are available to discuss risk-reducing steps if you would like. Special appointment times may be available on a case-by-case basis with prior arrangement. Contact our office to discuss this.
Pre-screening
We will screen all patients and visitors who enter the clinic with a questionnaire and by taking their temperature.
Fewer People
We have spread out our team members and our patients, to the extent it is possible. We have also spaced out appointments and ask patients to come to the office unaccompanied.
Clean open spaces
We have put away extra “stuff.” Only the supplies necessary for each appointment are set out. This helps us disinfect the clinic more efficiently.
Surface Disinfection
We use CDC approved high-level disinfectants on all surfaces between each appointment.
Environmental Controls
There are 3 HEPA filters running in our office at any given time.
Nightly fogging
We run foggers each night which have been shown to aid disinfection.
Extra protective equipment
Our team members will be wearing face masks or N-95 respirators (whichever the procedure requires), and a face shield. It can make it hard to hear you. Don’t be surprised if we ask you to speak up.