With the recent news and public impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), our dental team wanted to share some of the protocols we have in place to protect your health and wellness at your dental visit.
As part of your health care team, we are monitoring changes and updated guidelines set forth by the Australian Department of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) in our practice, interactions, and work environment to ensure patient and team safety. Since information is updated regularly, we recommend checking the latest recommendations.
Your number one line of safety is an educated and dedicated dental team. We have met with our entire staff to discuss protocols for keeping ourselves and patients safe, including symptoms to look for and what to do in the event of exposure.
Sterilisation and Pathogen Control
- Our dental clinic always maintains the highest cleanliness standards and sterilisation protocols using ADA-approved disinfectants and/or the barrier method to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
- We use medical-grade disinfectants and cleaners shown to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
- All instruments are sterilised using ADA-approved methods between each patient. Instrument carriers are equipped with indicators that show they have reached the proper temperature during the process.
- Many of our instruments and supplies are designed for single use. Once used, they are immediately disposed of safely.
- Sterilisation equipment is maintained and certified regularly.
- Common areas like reception desks, public toilet, and consultation areas are all regularly cleaned and sterilised to prevent disease spread outside of the treatment room.
- We have safety protocols in place in the event that our patients or dental team are exposed to coronavirus.
How Coronavirus Impacts Your Dental Appointment
Please contact us right away if any of the following conditions apply:
- You have travelled outside of the country in the last month.
- You have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, or flu-like symptoms.
- You have had contact with anyone who has been exposed to the coronavirus.
We are happy to rearrange bookings for patients who feel unwell or suspect they may have COVID-19.
How We Can Reduce the Spread of Coronavirus Together
Practising common sense caution can help slow the spread of coronavirus. Here are some vital actions you can take, recommended by the WHO.
- Wash your hands frequently using soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol if hand washing is unavailable.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, face, or mouth unless you have clean hands.
- Maintain distance from others in public of at least six feet.
- Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
- Stay at home if you are sick.
- Throw used tissues away immediately.
- If you are sick and must go out, wear a facemask.
If you have recently found disinfectants unavailable due to the demand for these products, you can make your own solution at home using 1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water. Never mix bleach with any other types of cleaners or ammonia. You can also use alcohol solutions at 70% alcohol or higher.
If you have any questions or concerns about coronavirus, the action we are taking, or if you should come in for your dental appointment, we welcome you to call our clinic.
For now, we are still open Monday to Friday however will be reducing our hours on certain days. We may also do some follow-up appointments offsite.