Sanitation Practices and Technology for Infection Control
In recognition of ongoing news reports and the continued spread of the COVID-19 virus, we realize our patients have questions. As dedicated health care professionals, we want you to know that we remain as diligent as ever in protecting the health and safety of our patients and staff.
Infection controls and universal precautions protect clients and staff alike. Everyone benefits from rigorous infection control — you, your dentist, and the dental team.
Dr. Fruhling and our entire team follow procedures recommended by several federal agencies: the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
These measures include:
Technology:
–Autoclave: a device that kills bacteria and viruses by steam, heat and pressure. We sterilize all reusable equipment, including dental hand pieces.
–Extraoral Dental Suction System: Specialized patient section units, in both hygiene and dental operatories that remove aerosol generated from dental procedures.
–Fogging unit with hypochlorous acid used in rooms to aid in disinfection of dental operations after use
–Medical-quality air purifiers located throughout the office
In addition to the list above, below are more specific precautions we demonstrate in our dental practice:
–Pre-screening (Health) of all patients before treatment. Staff are also screened before work daily.
–Physical distancing in the waiting room and greater appointment times between patients
–Plexiglass sneeze and cough guards located at the front desk
–Personal protection equipment such as gowns, gloves, face shields, and N95 masks for the staff
–Hand sanitizer and disinfectant hand soap accessibility for patient and staff use located throughout the practice
–Disinfectant wiping of patient surfaces such as door handles, bathrooms, waiting room chairs, countertop surfaces, and more.
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COVID-19 Information
Symptoms of coronavirus are reported as flu-like, with varying degrees of severity. While we do not know everything about this virus to date, individuals who are elderly and/or immunocompromised appear to be the most at risk of a severe infection. We thank you in advance and extend our gratitude for your understanding and cooperation. Together, we can help keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible. If you have any questions, concerns, or dental emergencies, please contact our office.
Please view and share our latest COVID-19 Symptom Comparison Chart with your friends and family.
For further information, including measures to keep yourself healthy, visit the following links: