Orthodontist Anaheim Hills

ADA.org/InterimGuidance to view the three flowcharts detailing processes to minimize COVID-19 transmission when treating dental emergencies

During the Covid-19 pandemic, going out for essentials like groceries can be scary. With nearly a nationwide shelter-in-place and social distancing order, it isn’t surprising that going to crowded places can induce tremendous anxiety. But going to your orthodontic appointment is likely safer than going to the grocery store! This is due to our clinic’s enhanced safety protocols and steps you should follow below to protect yourself!

Step 1: Preparation BEFORE orthodontic care starts

What you can do:

1. In the last 2 weeks, if you’ve travelled to any hotspots within the US (e.g. New York City) or outside the US (e.g. Italy), consider rescheduling your appointment.
2. If you experience any symptoms of dry cough, fevers, or shortness of breath, reschedule orthodontic appointment and consult your doctor.

What our clinic is doing:

1. We will do phone screenings for COVID-19 prior to your appointment by asking the questions above regarding your recent travel and any associated signs or symptoms.
2. Patients will be scheduled in such a way that allows for the social distancing in the clinical areas (prevent crowding in the back office). We ask that only 1 parent should accompany the patient in the clinical area.
3. To reduce crowding in the waiting area, only 1 adult should accompany a minor patient. You can also wait in the car and we can text you when you are ready to be seated in the clinical area. Please do not have anyone else come in.
4. Complimentary hand sanitizer is available at the reception area for your safety.

Step 2: Preparation during orthodontic care

What you can do:

1. Please brush prior to your appointment as our brushing station will be temporarily closed. Listerine rinses will be available if you did not have a chance to brush ahead of time.

What our clinic is doing:

1. Our staff are equipped with proper protective equipment so they can stay healthy and continue working safely to provide the best care for you.
2. For higher risk procedures such as removing or replacing braces, we have added extra steps such as having patients rinse with Colgate Peroxyl which helps reduce the viral load in the oral cavity and reduce transmission.

Step 3: What happens AFTER your care

1. We are evolving our practice to increase our quality of care while keeping you safe! We are excited to implement virtual consults for appointments such as retainer and aligner checks. You will now have fewer visits but still continue to finish your treatment in time!
2. Our office is taking extra precaution to keep you safe. In between patients, we are following strict guidelines from the dental associations including sterilizations of all instruments and rigorous hospital-grade disinfection of all clinical AND nonclinical areas. For example, we frequently clean all door handles, reception area chairs, and counterspaces.