Are you considered an at-risk patient during the COVID-19 crisis? Are you unsure of whether your health is in jeopardy if you leave your home? Offices and healthcare facilities across the country, such as your dentist in Cumberland, are taking extra precautionary measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of patients who have underlying medical conditions that make COVID-19 life-threatening. Read on to learn more about the protocols and how you can get dental care without worrying about putting yourself in harm’s way.
Who is Considered At-Risk During the COVID-19 Crisis?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with certain underlying medical conditions and who are 65 or older are at a higher risk of experiencing more life-threatening symptoms if they contract COVID-19. Because many people who aren’t at risk can experience mild signs or are completely asymptomatic, it’s still vital to wear masks while in public to protect others and yourself. Here are some common underlying conditions that can increase the chances of experiencing severe symptoms:
- Moderate-to-severe asthma
- Chronic kidney disease being treated with dialysis
- Chronic lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Type 1 or 2 diabetes
- Any illness that compromises the immune system
- Heart disease
What Precautions is Your Dentist Taking For At-Risk Patients?
Fortunately, your dentist in Cumberland is creating a safe and sterile environment so you can receive the dental treatment you need without putting your health at risk. They have implemented 26 additional safety protocols to make sure that your risk of becoming ill is minimal. If you are worried about visiting a public place or are at a high risk of experiencing serious illness, you can always contact their office to schedule an early appointment, before any other patients have visiting their practice. Some of the safety measures being made include:
- Proper PPE
- Daily team health checks
- Virtual waiting area
- Patient pre-screenings
- Virtual dentistry
How Can You Keep Yourself Safe While Going Out in Public?
Just because you’re an at-risk patient doesn’t always mean that you’ll be afforded with the opportunity to stay home. If you find yourself in need of groceries or other necessities, be sure to take additional preventive measures while you’re out in public. Make sure to always wear a mask and glasses instead of contacts, if possible. This will help prevent any possible spread of saliva directly to your mucous membrane and can make you less tempted to rub your eyes. If you’re able to, try to keep a safe distance of at least six feet from others in public spaces. Although this can be hard, it can help reduce your risk of becoming exposed to any germs or bacteria.
Just because you’re at-risk doesn’t mean that you have to stop your life. Your dentist in Cumberland is making sure that your safety and health is being prioritized above all else when you visit their practice, so don’t hesitate to ask about their safety guidelines before you come in for your appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Saba Abernathy has achieved her Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, where she passed rigorous board examinations and completed countless hours of advanced education courses. She is dedicated to providing her patients with high-quality dental care that prioritizes their overall wellbeing. She is also the Chairperson of Continuing Education for the Massachusetts Academy of General Dentistry and is an active member of her dental community. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Diamond Hill Dental’s website or call 401-333-2700.