Is the office open?
Yes! We are seeing new and existing patients for all procedures.
What precautions are being taken to minimize risks?
- Verbal screening for COVID-19 symptoms and associated risk factors. Upon arrival for the appointment, a temporal temperature reading is taken at the front entry. If the reading is 99 degrees and below, we can proceed with the appointment.
- Providing an opportunity for each patient to receive a 48-hour COVID-19 test prior to the appointment. It is not required, but it is recommended. Should you choose to be tested, our reception team will help walk you through the process of getting the test done and when to schedule an appointment.
- Providing a hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse prior to the start of the appointment.
- Increased use of high vacuum equipment during procedures that produce mist.
- Clinical team members will be using a higher grade of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Staggering patient appointment times.
- Asking patients to use hand sanitizer prior to entering the operatories.
- Sanitizing the waiting areas between each patient, as well as properly spaced (6 feet) chairs.
- Added barriers at the front desk and all team members wearing masks.
Are there risks that I should be aware of when coming to the dentist at this time?
During some dental procedures, air and water are used together which create an airborne mist, known as aerosols. To reduce these aerosols, we have increased our use of high-vacuum equipment. Patients will also be asked to use a pre-procedure hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse.
Am I required to be tested for COVID-19 before going to the dentist?
It is not required. But we encourage it, and can send a request to the drive-thru testing facility for you.
What can I do to help protect myself and others at the dental office?
- Wear a mask to your appointment.
- Comply with the safety procedures and measures we are taking to keep everyone safe.
- Continue to appropriately distance yourself from others.
What are some information resources for mandates and recommendations?
- https://covid19.alaska.gov/health-mandates/
- https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/statement-COVID.html
Please be patient as we navigate through these difficult times together.
