New Look Dental understands that returning to the “new normal” looks different to everyone right now, and varies from city to city and state to state. As news and information about the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, so will the measures we institute to take care of our patients.
Dental Care During COVID -19
Dr. Kirakosian has been available for her patients’ emergency dental needs, while engaging in the most immaculate sanitation procedures, as their health, safety and welfare is number one priority.
Now, at the direction of the CDC and the American Dental Association (ADA), each dental group has been advised to assess the risk in their area before re-opening their dental offices.
As a Los Angeles dentist, Dr. Kirakosian is offering online virtual consultations through ZocDoc to provide a safe dental care option to support her patients’ needs, while continuing plans to get back to full-time in-office hours.
When we fully reopen, we will use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face shields, gowns and masks distributed by the California Dentistry Association (CDA) and adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Cal/OSHA OSHA guidelines by following an established respiratory protection program.
Safe Dental Practices
As a dental clinic, hygienic practices have always been a vital part of our office, with each team member being vigilant about sanitation with every patient appointment. In many ways, we are doing what have always routinely done, such as cleaning, disinfecting, replacing and covering tools, and making sure all surfaces are disinfected. Some additions we have adopted to further ensure our patients’ safety include:
- Additional protective gear worn such a N95 face masks, gowns, face covers
- Extra time between appointments and space between patients to honor social distancing
- No early arrivals, nor guests permitted inside dental office
- Waiting room chairs spaced 6’ apart
- Appointment confirmation calls to include inquiry about health, recent travel and exposure risk
- Immediate symptom checks with temperature taken at beginning of appointments
- Removal of magazines and other things commonly touched in waiting rooms
Emergency vs. Non-Urgent Treatments
A dental emergency is a dental problem that needs to be corrected immediately. If you experience any of the following issues, call us immediately to schedule an emergency dental visit:
- Broken teeth
- Issues with dental work: loose or broken caps and crowns, ill-fitting or other issues with dentures
- Bleeding that will not stop
- High potential for spread of infection
- Oral issues related to cancer treatment
- Pain or swelling in the face, gums or neck
- Post-operative care
- Issues with braces – broken wires or brackets poking and causing pain
We miss our patients and look forward to seeing those who have temporarily postponed non-essential treatments, such as cosmetic dentistry services like dental veneers and professional teeth whitening. While we contend that a regular dental cleaning is a vital preventative health measure, it is considered non-essential in contrast with the COVID-19 health threat, as skipping one or two cleanings won’t immediately harm you.
The team at New Look Dental wholeheartedly empathizes with everyone’s concerns and aims to do what we can to put you at ease while maintaining your optimal dental health. As soon as things return to normal, we can’t wait to resume your regular, annual dental self-care and help perfect your smile.
Remember: Whenever you have a cold or flu-like symptoms, please call us to reschedule as every sneeze or cough spreads respiratory droplets that carry the potential to spread any virus.
