PPE For Dentists Returning Back To their Dental Practice

Doctors’ offices and dentists are in the process of reopening their clinics as the lockdown restrictions are being eased. Dentistry is hard hit by the pandemic- probably more than any other niche due to the close contact that involves with the patients and the risks of droplet infections from asymptomatic Covid-19 patients.

However, regular dental checkups are essential for oral health and only dentists can ensure this. By adopting some best practices and personal protection guidelines dentists can confidently resume their practice and bring back the smiles on the faces of their clients.

Doctors should first understand the potential risks of patient interaction and having the best dental PPE available. It will reduce the chances of contamination.

Here are some tips that will help you get started on a sure note.

PPE is crucial

Human mouth carries germs, COVID-19 included. So, even the most mundane oral checkup carries a considerable risk for the dentists to come in contact with microbes. Full cover PPE accessories including gown, gloves, safety goggles and respirator masks will help to cut down the risks. It will serve as a protective barrier against germs. Check out  these custom PPE value kits that includes everything that you may need.

Sanitize hands and dentistry equipment

Sanitizing hands and the dentistry chair and tables are also of importance to ensure absolute sterility in the office.

The dentistry equipment should be sanitized after every use to prevent the risk of transmission among their patients.

Waiting rooms is another major area of concern. Make sure to arrange chairs at least 1 meter apart and put social distancing floor decals to mark out areas where the patients need to queue up to make payments or fill out forms. Always keep custom hand sanitizers at reception.

A constant cycle of cleaning and disinfecting of shared places like receptions tables, chairs, door knobs and floors has to be undertaken without fail.

Space out appointments

The appointment timings can be spaced out in such a manner that there are no more than two patients waiting in the office at any given time. It will also make it easy to carry out sanitation between servicing patients.

Install Thermal scanners

Thermal scanners or digital forehead thermometers can be used to measure the temperature of the patients while they are in your parking lot or your waiting room to make sure that the sick does not enter the office. If your dental office is located in a Covid-19 hotspot with a high level of reported cases, you can opt to offer only emergency services till situation stabilizes.

3-Ply Disposable Face Masks

Dentists may have to stock up disposable 3 Ply Face Masks for all the staff members including those in the reception area and even patients who may not have a mask. The dentists who stay exposed to the patient’s mouth for a long time carries a very high risk. It is recommended that they wear K95 Respirator Face Masks that are designed to filter out particles in the environment.

Protective Face Shields

Protective Face Shields that cover the full face including eyes, nose and mouth without hampering visibility will make a great addition to your work kit to ensure safety. It will make a handy replacement for masks for those who find it uncomfortable to wear masks for an extended period of time.

Gloves

Dental offices already have gloves in stock as dentists work with gloves on. But now everyone in your clinic including the reception staff may need  disposable gloves to prevent germ transmission in the event of coming in contact with patients inadvertently. Make sure to order in bulk ensure steady supply for everyone who may need it.

Safety goggles

Safety goggles will keep the eyes safe from droplets as dentists examine the mouth of the patients closely.

Sanitizer Wipes

Leave a box of  custom Antibacterial Moist Wipes at the work desks of your staff to spot clean a surface or for a quick wipe of their hands.

Though dentists have a unique and rather higher risk level,  adopting best practices will make a great way to minimize any viral transmissions.  We at ProImprint, understand the importance of PPE items for dentists and we have stocked up everything you may ever need to go back to your practice with confidence.