Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
The thought of going to a dentist during the COVID pandemic may scare you because you may feel unsafe. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a published study illustrates that less than one percent of dentists nationwide have tested positive for COVID, which is dramatically less than other health care professionals. With safety protocols such as hand hygiene, sterilization, and disinfecting practices, the family dentist near you in Okemos, Dr. Christine Tenaglia of Tenaglia Smiles, explains visiting the dentist is safe even amid a pandemic. Below is some additional information about the steps our dental staff takes to protect our patients and ourselves.
How does Tenaglia Smiles protect patients from COVID?
Dr. Tenaglia and the highly trained friendly dental staff understand infectious diseases and the best methods to eradicate germs within the office. Infection prevention begins with following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) protocols to maintain optimum environmental conditions for patient treatments. Dentists have long since been known to practice strict sterilization and disinfecting controls, as well as the donning of Personal Protective Equipment. Coupled with the new direction provided by the ADA and the CDC, our staff works diligently to mitigate the spread of bacteria and viruses. With stringent regulations on disease prevention, you can rest assured that you can get a checkup and cleaning without worrying about contracting the COVID virus.
Why is it necessary for me to see the dentist during COVID?
Your oral health directly links to your overall health. Negligence of your oral health can lead to advanced health conditions such as a lung infection, heart disease, aspiration, and possibly stroke. Therefore, the East Lansing board-certified dentist near you recommends regular checkups and cleanings to prevent common oral health issues like tooth decay or cavities, gum disease, or tooth loss. If you choose not to visit your dentist regularly, the bacteria in your mouth can build up and enter your bloodstream, resulting in advanced and sometimes complex health conditions.
What can I do if I am afraid to visit the dentist during COVID?
Feel free to contact our office to discuss your concerns and ask any questions. If you experience swelling or extreme pain, call our office immediately for an appointment as the situation can become worse quickly. However, suppose you are afraid of visiting the dentist with an ongoing pandemic. In that case, you can practice extra oral care on your teeth at home by brushing and flossing after consuming any foods or beverages to limit residual bacteria and plaque. Although extra home care is beneficial and can reduce the effects of harmful bacteria, it will not replace your need to visit the dentist for a professional cleaning. Eventually, a visit to the dentist is necessary to maintain optimum oral health.
Family Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Visiting your dentist during the COVID pandemic could be stressful, not knowing your vulnerability to the virus. Fortunately, for the patients who visit our clean Lansing dental office, you can rest assured that the staff at Tenaglia Smiles is continuously working to protect patients whether there is a pandemic or not. If you have been delaying your dental appointment, feel free to contact Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733 or schedule an appointment online.