What Patients Need to Know about Dental Appointments and COVID-19

After the COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, many efforts to “flatten the curve” have been put into place. People and businesses around the globe continue to see the wide-ranging impacts of this coronavirus on everyday lives. Oasis Orthodontics participates by taking proactive measures to help slow the increasing numbers of those affected.

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee imposed limits on visits and gatherings starting 23 March 2020. There is still no vaccine available for the COVID-19. During the time being, Australians need to be responsible while helping to contain this virus.

Oasis Orthodontics profoundly cares about the people – our patients, staff, and the community where we live and work. We continue to follow the COVID-19 situation carefully, not only in Australia but in the rest of the world. In accordance with the recommendations set by the Australian Dental Association, Oasis Orthodontics will be deferring routine treatments.

We take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously and its risks to patients and our staff. Therefore, we have decided that we will only accept orthodontic emergencies in the meantime. Most cases will have no negative impact even if treatments are delayed for one to two months.

What is an Orthodontic Emergency?

As mentioned, we will not be operating as usual unless it is an emergency. The keyword that we are looking for is “pain.” If the patient is experiencing severe pain, bleeding, and swelling, a schedule for a meeting can be set. Mild discomfort or even tenderness in the gums is usually viewed as normal. It can last for a couple of days. If it persists, you can contact us to book an appointment.

Our lines are always open. If you have any dental pain or trauma, you can reach out to us on (08) 6169 1699. We will then direct you on how you can go to the next series of steps.

Minimising the Risks

Oasis Orthodontics understands that it is a challenging time for everyone. If you are in urgent need of care, we will still take specific actions before you can meet with our orthodontist and staff. Please be aware that we will ask you a set of questions before the appointment can take place.

These questions include:

• Did you travel in the last 14 days, especially outside Australia?
• Do you personally know anyone who has been confirmed to be infected with COVID-19? Have you been in contact with this person?
• Do you show signs of respiratory illness, including cough and fever?

If you answer “yes” to ANY of the above enquiries, we regret to inform you that we cannot see you at the moment. We urge you to reschedule your appointment to make sure that you are COVID-19-free before you leave your home.

Meanwhile, if your answer is “no” to all of the questions, your scheduled appointment will push through.

Other Things to Know Before Your Visit

We urge you to be alone when you visit our premises. For children and teens, only one parent or guardian should accompany them. This way, our reception area will have enough space for practising social distancing.

Significantly, our patients know about social distancing. This term is widely used on TV, social media, and news publications. Social distancing is one of the measures that the government and health officials are implementing. Also known as physical distancing, it involves providing ample space between each patient and staff. Whenever someone is outside their home, it is vital to maintain physical or social distancing.

The recommended distance is at least two metres from other people. Group gatherings are also prohibited, which is why we encourage our patients to be alone during their visit. Younger people who may need assistance can come with an adult or one member of the family.

COVID-19 spreads among individuals in close contact or within about two metres for a prolonged time. When an infected person sneezes, coughs, or even talks, some droplets can reach another person’s mouth or nose. These droplets can also enter the lungs when inhaled.

One more modification that we have implemented is removing magazines and books in our waiting room. This step is not to make the wait boring, but to minimise the risk. Researchers have stated that it is possible to get COVID-19 when you touch any part of your face after putting your hand on a surface with the virus on it. As you can see, this virus is highly transmittable, and it can infect numerous people in such a short time.

By getting rid of the items in our waiting room, the transmission can be reduced. Of course, this measure is only temporary, and we will make sure that you have the same level of comfort while you wait for your appointment.

You may also want to know that some parts of our facilities are closed, including some sections at the oral hygiene stations. When booking your appointment, it helps to ask about these facilities in case you may need to use them.

A sanitiser will be in the waiting area as well. Our orthodontists use them, as well as our staff. We encourage our visitors to do the same. It helps to sanitise before and after the meeting. When you get home, make sure that you wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 minutes. Avoid greeting people as you make your way in.

Before you enter our office, we will have you sign a waiver. It is to ensure that you know and understands our policies. You may read it thoroughly before your appointment begins.

If you need more information, our lines are open. You can call our phone on (08) 6169 1699 to reach our Clarkson office. You can also send us a message by filling out our online form here.

Oasis Orthodontics is thankful for the understanding of our patients. We are facing a huge challenge, and we want to maintain a sheltered office and practise for everyone. Please stay safe and well, as we continue the fight against the coronavirus.