Even as the country slowly begins to reopen, it’s important to remember that the threat of COVID-19 isn’t gone. It’s still essential that we are doing everything we can to prevent the spread of infected particles as we go about our daily lives. Thankfully, your New Bedford dentist has always been an expert at keeping both your smile and their tools exceptionally clean. Read on to learn more about how they’re maintaining a safe, germ-free environment while providing excellent dentistry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Utilizing Single-Use Tools
In some cases, the risk of transferring germs via instruments can be completely eliminated by utilizing single-use tools. Items like suction tube tips and needles are designed to only be used in one appointment. After coming in contact with a patient, they are safely disposed of in a dedicated receptacle to prevent the spread of germs.
Sterilizing Reusable Instruments
Any instruments that cannot be thrown away are thoroughly sterilized between patients. This includes tools like dental mirrors, scalers, and handpieces (drills). Team members are specially trained to disinfect these items with specific procedures outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which could include using options like a:
- Autoclave, or applying steam under pressure.
- Dry-heat oven with extremely high temperatures.
- Chemicalve, or use of a cleaning chemical vapor.
Sanitizing Fixtures & Surfaces
Even objects that don’t come close to your mouth need to be sanitized as well. Since COVID-19 can survive on a variety of surfaces for long periods of time, anything that has been touched or exposed to airborne particles, aerosols, or body fluids could be contaminated. Thankfully, objects like countertops, doorknobs, light switches, sink faucets, drawer handles, examination lights, and dental chairs are sanitized after each appointment. First, the area is cleaned with soap and water to remove any large debris that could shelter smaller particles. Then, a hospital-grade disinfectant is used to kill any lingering germs.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of our lives, it hasn’t changed your dentist’s commitment to health and safety. If you need to visit them for care during COVID-19, you can take confidence knowing that they are going to great lengths to keep both you and their tools clean.
About the Practice
Now and always, your wellbeing is our top priority at Clear Coast Dental. We are proud to have always met and exceeded the ambitious sanitation standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To keep our patients, staff, and the entire community of New Bedford, MA safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have added a variety of extra precautions and infection control protocols. Now more than ever, we are ensuring that our practice is impeccably germ-free. If you’d like to learn more about what to expect at your next appointment, feel free to reach us via our website or at (508) 997-1030.
