The health of your child’s smile is important but when it comes to deciding whether they should return for a dental appointment once doors reopen, you may begin to think, “Is it safe?” This common question is being asked by millions of parents at this time, and your dentist fully understands the hesitation you might have in coming back right now. But before you completely disregard the idea, spend some time learning what your child’s dental team is doing to provide a cleaner, healthier, safer environment for everyone.
When Will It Be Okay to Bring My Child Back?
The answer to this question is ultimately up to you, the parent. Although dental offices throughout Texas are tentatively reopening right now, many parents like yourself may feel hesitant to rush your child back in for a regular dental checkup and cleaning. This is normal, especially because of the proximity between your child and staff.
But rest assured, extra steps are being taken to keep your child’s safety a number one priority. However, should you have additional questions or concerns and the idea of bringing your child in for an appointment, your dentist and dental team will be happy to take your call.
What Protocols Are in Place for Safety and Cleanliness?
Following the guidelines and recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some of the most common protocols being following by your child’s dentist include:
- Performing pre-screens when calling to schedule an appointment. They will ask about you and your child’s current health and whether either of you has displayed symptoms associated with COVID-19
- Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, protective eyewear, a face mask, face shield, and disposable gown
- Increasing sanitizing and disinfecting efforts of all dental instruments, equipment, and surface areas
- Advising patients to practice social distancing
- Encouraging proper handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer to avoid possible contamination or transmission of the virus
As a parent, you must decide when it’s the right time to bring your child back in for a regular checkup. But remember, the dentist’s office is one of the cleanest places you can visit right now. If you have any worries, make sure to give them a call.
About the Author
Dr. Tera Pollock attended the University of Arkansas before earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1993. Completing a post-doctoral General Practice Residency at Detroit Receiving Hospital/the University of Detroit Mercy, she is passionate about providing dental care to children. Understanding that you may feel apprehensive about bringing your little one in for a visit, she and her team are taking every precaution to maintain a safe environment in which you and your child can feel welcome and comfortable. For questions about our new protocols, visit our website or call (469) 284-8895.