COVID-19 Reminder for Dental Practices

A new personal account from Pat Langley serves as a crucial reminder for dental practices, urging them to remain cautious as a new COVID-19 variant spreads. Langley, who recently experienced a bout of COVID-19 firsthand, shared insights on the Dentistry.co.uk website, emphasizing the importance of sustained preventive measures even as everyday life has largely returned to normal.

A Personal Experience as a Wake-Up Call

Langley’s encounter with COVID-19 began unexpectedly with what appeared to be mild hay fever symptoms. Preparing for a long-anticipated family reunion, she opted to take a precautionary COVID-19 test, considering the presence of elderly relatives. “To my surprise and dismay, the test came back positive,” Langley revealed. The mild symptoms quickly escalated into a severe cough, constant sneezing, and overwhelming fatigue that left her bedridden for two days.

This experience was a stark reminder of the ongoing risks associated with COVID-19, especially with new, highly transmissible variants circulating. “The new variant, more transmissible than earlier ones, does not discriminate,” Langley cautioned. Even individuals who have taken precautions can find themselves unexpectedly affected by the virus, underscoring the need for continued awareness.

The Role of Dental Practices in Combatting Transmission

Langley believes that dental practices, given their unique environment, play a crucial role in mitigating the spread of COVID-19. The nature of dental procedures, which often involve close contact and aerosol-generating procedures, increases the potential for virus transmission. Throughout the pandemic, dental practices have implemented rigorous safety measures, including pre-appointment screenings, enhanced cleaning protocols, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

However, Langley suggests that with the emergence of new variants, it is time for dental practices to reassess and reinforce some of these protocols. “Dental practices have been exemplary in implementing safety measures,” Langley stated. “Yet, with the new variant, it’s worth taking time to revisit some of the protocols we used at other times of increased transmission.”

Recommendations for Dental Practices

Drawing on her experience and current best practices, Langley offers several recommendations to help dental practices navigate the challenges posed by the new variant:

1. Continue Rigorous Pre-Appointment Screenings

Pre-appointment screenings remain essential. Langley advises practices to inquire about patients’ symptoms, recent travel, and potential exposure to COVID-19, especially given the variant’s rapid spread. This information can be used to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with appointments.

2. Delay Non-Urgent Appointments for Symptomatic Patients

If a patient displays symptoms of COVID-19, it is wise to postpone non-urgent dental procedures until the patient either recovers or tests negative for the virus. This approach helps minimize the risk of transmission within the practice.

3. Enhanced PPE for Aerosol-Generating Procedures

For patients with urgent dental needs who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms, Langley recommends revisiting enhanced PPE protocols. This includes using FFP2 or FFP3 masks, visors, and potentially disposable gowns to protect both dental professionals and patients during aerosol-generating treatments.

4. Optimize Ventilation Systems

Effective ventilation is a key measure in reducing airborne transmission. Langley suggests that practices improve air circulation by opening windows, utilizing mechanical ventilation systems, or employing air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters in treatment rooms.

5. Encourage Vaccinations and Boosters

Vaccination remains a critical line of defense against COVID-19. Langley encourages dental teams and patients alike to stay current with vaccinations and booster shots, which can significantly reduce the severity of the illness.

6. Ongoing Education and Clear Communication

Regular updates and education about COVID-19 for dental staff are vital, according to Langley. Ensuring that all team members are well-informed about the latest guidelines and safety measures helps maintain a consistent approach. Clear communication with patients about the steps taken to ensure their safety can also help alleviate concerns and promote compliance.

The Shared Responsibility of Dental Practices

Reflecting on her own experience with COVID-19, Langley emphasizes the shared responsibility that dental practices have in safeguarding public health. The lingering effects of her illness, including persistent fatigue, serve as a reminder of the virus’s unpredictable nature. “While the worst of the physical symptoms passed, I was left grappling with a lingering fatigue that has made everyday tasks challenging,” she shared, highlighting the potential for long-term impacts.

For Langley, the key message is clear: dental practices must continue to uphold stringent safety measures. “This isn’t just about protecting yourself or your patients – it’s about safeguarding the community, especially those who are more vulnerable,” she stated.

A Call for Continued Vigilance

While the immediate threat of COVID-19 may seem diminished, Langley warns that the virus is still very much present, particularly with the emergence of more infectious variants. She urges dental practices to remain vigilant and proactive in their safety protocols to help curb the spread of the virus.

“By staying vigilant and proactive, dental practices can continue to play a pivotal role in our collective fight against COVID-19,” Langley concludes.

For more detailed guidance on compliance and best practices, visit Dentistry.co.uk/compliance or schedule a Dental Compliance Health Check with a consultant.

Langley’s reminder comes at a critical time, reinforcing the importance of continued caution as the world adapts to a new phase of the pandemic. As she notes, the responsibility is shared: “Let’s not forget that while the immediate threat may seem reduced, the virus is still very much with us.”