Patient washing her hands while wearing a mask, the first step upon entry to the operatory; Dr. Somerville wearing full PPE (personal protective equipment): a disposable surgical mask on top of a reusable respirator N95 mask, face shield, cap and gown; Annette spraying (cold fogging) Dr. Patel and later the operatory with a 200 ppm solution of hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a nontoxic, non irritant disinfectant so safe it is used to clean wounds on premature infants with no ill effects.
As we write this we’re still awaiting guidance from the CDC and OSHA about how to safely perform elective procedures. We’re keeping abreast of all their recommendations, to make sure we’re in compliance to keep you and our team members safe. We’re ready to implement expanded infection controls (see images above) and social distancing measures, and are improving our paperless processes to expedite your visit to our office.
Our intention is to reopen while keeping you, your family, and our team members healthy and safe. This week we conducted a role play, with four team members receiving actual dental work, to make sure that our new protocols will run smoothly. We learned a lot and will conduct another role play next week.
During our Phase 1 Reopening to non-emergency treatment we will be operating at half capacity and with reduced hours. This will ensure that you won’t have to sit in the waiting room, and enable us to maintain social distancing measures.
We’ll be reopening slowly, tailoring our schedule to how comfortable our patients feel coming in for preventive or elective dental treatment. We are confident that with the extra measures we are taking, you will feel safe and comfortable coming in to take care of your dental needs before serious oral problems arise.
We’ll continue to keep you posted about what we’re doing to keep you safe. Meanwhile, please keep yourself and your loved ones safe!
Remember that we’re open for emergencies and teledentistry if you need us.
We look forward to seeing to you soon!
Dr. Harvey Levy & Associates