In a bid to forestall the spread of the coronavirus, various stringent measures have been taken by the government, including the lockdown restrictions. Many businesses have suffered as a result of this. And dental practices are not left out.
It is no longer business as usual for dentists whose businesses were recording high turnover pre-coronavirus, especially now that there is a second lockdown.
During the first lockdown, it was worse as dental clinics had to close following unclear rules and regulations. Fortunately, there is a change. Protective measures against covid-19 have been clearly established, and many businesses have reopened. So also are dental practices ready to provide dental care to the public.
(Dental Practices)
What are the critical concerns of the public?
At the beginning of the pandemic, it was difficult to book dental appointments, and practices were not operating as they used to. This made most people concerned that they may not get emergency and the usual appointments with dentists in their area regarding dental hygiene and care.
The good news is most dentists, including dental specialists at St Albans are now open for business, and appointments for a plethora of dental services can be booked. So, whatever concern the public had are now receiving the attention due them.
Is it possible to visit your dentist during this lockdown?
Since around 70% of practices are open, including the NHS and private dentists, the chances of seeing a dentist are high. Simply find out from your local dental service provider or visit dental clinics that are offering services right now.
The traffic at dental practices has been significantly lowered as there are not so many staff like it used to be pre-pandemic. What does this mean for you? It implies that social distancing can work effectively to protect the health of both patients and staff.
We at St Albans Dental Clinic are happy to inform you that we are currently operating and offering services. If you would like to schedule an appointment with us either as a new or existing patient, just go ahead and do so. You will be given the care you need from qualified dentists at our practice.
Why are dentists allowed to operate in this lockdown?
As far as the second lockdown is concerned, the rules are quite different for dental practitioners. And as a matter of fact, we have put adequate plans in place for a time like this compared to the beginning of the pandemic, where many preparations were not made.
You are all aware that the government has declared all non-essential services barred from operating while allowing essential services to operate.
To further buttress this point, the Chief Dental Officer for England, Sara Hurley, has confirmed this in her statement, which reads: “I can confirm that this includes NHS dental services. Therefore, during the period of tighter restrictions, practices should remain open to treat patients in line with the SOP”.
So, it is clear that there is nothing stopping dentists at this time from doing their job.
Are there any set measures of safety now?
Yes. Every government regulation to prevent the spread of coronavirus is enforced, and the NHS has taken a step further to give dental practices additional guidance and measures. Part of these measures is meticulous guidelines established to keep practices under check. Patients’ vulnerability is also considered under the new guidelines.
Since in-office appointments have resumed, all the typical safety measures are being enforced. The guideline stipulates that all staff make use of face masks and hand sanitizers, and social distancing be practiced as much as possible.
As for patients, they can be sure that only sterilized equipment will be used on them during the appointment, plus additional ventilation has been brought in.
That’s not all. We now offer a free e-consultation for all patients that need to use our services. This will enable us to attend to as many cases as possible without having any face-to-face meetings. So, you may not have to visit our practice physically, but you will definitely get professional advice and guidance using our online consultation. All of this is aimed at lowering in-person contact.
What dental services are being offered right now?
This would depend on the dentist you want to see. Not all dentists may offer the same services presently. However, for us at St Albans Dental Clinic, we offer a plethora of dental services. This is to ensure that you get all the usual services at our practice.
If you have missing teeth, treatment is very much available. Should you need dental implants that also is offered? What about scheduling an emergency appointment? Simply get in contact with our team, and your 24-hour emergency treatment will be right where you are.
Book your dental services now
At St Albans Dental Clinic, we are highly experienced and have completed many dental procedures. Now more than ever, we are ready to offer as always, sterling dental care to patients without compromising any of the covid-19 rules or regulations set by the NHS.
Knowing that the world is in a precarious time, we have made assiduous preparations towards delivering. An effective dental service to protect patients while fixing their dental concerns.
If there is anything you should worry about, then it should be getting more quality oral care from us.
Conclusion
The comeback of dental practices is making more sense. As they have implemented more stringent safety measures for the good of patients and staff.
You can see your dentist during this second lockdown as the government has given them permission to open and operate. Even now, you can get more convenient dental care as the pandemic has shaped the way dentists now deliver care.
Our dental specialists St Albans offer fully functional online consultation for patients who may not like to visit physically. And for those who would like an in-office consultation, we have safety guidelines to keep you protected today.