How the COVID-19 Pandemic Continues to Affect Dental Visits? and How We’re keeping you safe?

Even though the height of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us, its ripple effects are still very much a part of our daily lives, especially in healthcare, and yes, even in dentistry. Understanding the impacts of COVID-19 and a dental visit is essential as we navigate these changes.

We’ve all had to adapt in the past few years, and the dental world is no exception. I wanted to take a moment to share how COVID-19 continues to influence dental visits, and more importantly, how we’ve stepped up our efforts to make your visits as safe and comfortable as possible.

Lingering Effects of the Pandemic

Let’s be honest, COVID changed everything. For a while, dental visits dropped dramatically. Understandably, many patients postponed routine cleanings, checkups, and even treatment for more serious dental issues. Some are still playing catch-up on their oral health.

We’re also seeing an increase in dental problems that can be traced back to the stress and lifestyle changes of the pandemic: more clenching and grinding, more cavities from disrupted routines and snacking, and even gum disease in patients who may have missed a few checkups.

But the good news? We’re here. We’re open. And we’re ready.

Your Safety Is Our Top Priority

Here are the safety measures we continue to follow (and in many cases, have enhanced) to protect you and our team:

1. Enhanced Air Filtration and Ventilation

We’ve installed medical-grade air purifiers in every treatment room. These systems filter out aerosols and airborne particles to keep the air you breathe as clean as possible.

2. Rigorous Sterilization and Disinfection

We always followed CDC and OSHA guidelines, but now we go even further. Every surface in our treatment areas is disinfected between patients, and we’ve added additional layers of cleaning in our common areas throughout the day.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Our clinical team continues to wear upgraded PPE—including KN95, face shields, and gowns—when needed. It might make us look a little more like astronauts, but it keeps everyone safe.

4. Pre-Screening and Scheduling Adjustments

We’ve adjusted our schedule to reduce the number of people in the office at any given time. We still pre-screen patients when appropriate and ask that anyone feeling under the weather reschedule their appointment.

5. Contactless Check-In and Payments

From digital forms to contactless payments, we’ve streamlined the process so you can spend less time in the waiting room and more time smiling in the dental chair.

Our Message to You

We understand that coming to the dentist might feel a little different than it did before 2020—and that’s okay. We want you to know that we are doing everything possible to ensure a safe, stress-free visit.

If it’s been a while since your last checkup, don’t worry, we’re not here to judge. We’re here to help you get back on track. We’ve got the tools, the technology, and the heart to make your visit as comfortable and safe as possible.

So if you’ve been putting off your dental care, let this be your gentle nudge. Your health matters and we’re here when you’re ready.

Stay safe, stay well, and keep smiling!

Warmly,
Dr. Vainer
Your Friendly Neighborhood Dentist