Prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Alberta Dentistry has had some of the highest infection control standards in the world. Since the onset of the pandemic we have implemented enhanced infection control protocols, above and beyond the stringent policies we already had in place, following the current guidelines set forth by the Alberta Dental Association and College. We take infection control seriously for the safety of our patients and our staff.
Before your next visit, we wanted to highlight to you some of the changes we have made to further protect your health; your dental visit will look a little different than what you are accustomed. Here is a list of some of the new safety protocols we have put in place:
Patient Screening
We will call you to perform a ‘Pre-Appointment Screening’, for the purpose of determining if you have any COVID-19 symptoms or possible exposure risks before arriving at our office. When you arrive you will be asked to fill out a patient screening consent form and have your temperature taken.
Patient Protection
As per the current bylaw in Calgary, face coverings must be worn in public places and businesses, including our dental clinic. Patients entering and exiting will be wearing masks. In addition we have hand sanitizer throughout the office and have patients perform hand hygiene before leaving the dental operatory.
Interaction Limits
At our reception desks, we’ve installed plexiglass barriers and placed ‘Stand Here’ markers on the ground away from the desk to encourage physical distancing. Pens and debit machines are wiped down after use by our staff.
Physical Distancing
We have a large waiting room so our chairs are spaced 2 metres (6 feet) apart. Our staff members will wipe down contact surfaces throughout the day with an approved surface cleaner. In the event that our waiting room has too many people we will ask that some of our patients stand outside the clinic glass door in the building lobby.
Your Comfort Is Our Concern
If at any time, you feel unsure of the new protocols, feel free to ask our staff about our protocols. We will also post signs in specific areas to help guide you through the new process.
Staff Monitoring
In addition to these new protocols, as mandated by Alberta Health Services, our staff must daily and continuously self-monitor for any symptoms. Depending on the procedure being performed our clinical staff must don specific standards of PPE.
Should you require more information regarding the infection control guidelines set forth by the Alberta Dental Association and College, please visit: https://www.dentalhealthalberta.ca. In addition we are more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your upcoming dental appointment.
Our goal is to provide you with the dental care you need in a SAFE and comfortable environment. We hope to see you soon!