We know there is still so much uncertainty and conflicting information about what you can and cannot safely do as things begin to open up. COVID has interrupted so many important aspects of daily life, and one of those might have been your consistent dental visits. We aren’t hearing these questions from our patients because the people asking them are not yet conning in for dental visits. However, we hear them from friends and family members who wonder if it is safe to go back to the dentist.
When is it Safe to Return to the Dentist?
Now!
We can declare with confidence that it is (and has been for some time) safe to return to your consistent dental visits. The additional safety protocols we implemented last year to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 proved successful in protecting both our team members and our patients.
We are continuing to apply these protocols and upholding clear safety measures, and we have not changed our policies even though statewide mandates have relaxed. When you visit our office, you will notice that we will perform COVID screenings, temperature checks, and face coverings inside our office.
As you are probably aware, most healthcare providers have either received the COVID-19 vaccine or have proof of antibodies to the virus, so your risk of virus transmission from a healthcare worker is lower now than ever before.
Why Should I Return to the Dentist Now?
We understand the hesitation many people when considering a dental visit. When weighing the risks and benefits, you will see that your risk of a preventable dental problem is much higher than your risk for contracting COVID-19 in your dentist’s office.
If you have not seen your dentist since pre-COVID days, you have probably missed at least two professional teeth cleanings and your yearly oral evaluation with dental x-rays. All of these procedures fall under the “Preventive” category, and when you skip them, you miss out on the preventive benefits they provide.
Oral Evaluation and Dental X-Rays
During your oral evaluation and dental x-rays with Dr. Jill, Dr. Cara and Dr. Summer, they will catch warning signs and risk factors for dental problems. Our goal as preventive dentists is to anticipate future problems and help you take action to prevent them from progressing to a point that requires dental treatment. Most dental problems get slowly worse over time, and if you wait until they cause noticeable symptoms, the necessary treatment is always more extensive and more expensive. Without these preventive visits, we can’t stop problems before they start.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
During your professional teeth cleaning, our wonderful dental hygienists remove all bacterial buildup from the teeth and gums. They clean away soft plaque and hard tartar, and this removal reduces your risk for dental diseases like cavities and gum disease. When you skip your teeth cleanings, you develop more accumulation of plaque and tartar, which increases your risk for cavities and gum disease.
How Do I Get Back on Track?
That answer is simple. Just call Prosper Family Dentistry at 972-347-1145 to schedule an appointment. We have remained committed to providing excellent dental care for our patients during the pandemic, and our commitment is stronger than ever.
Prosper Family Dentistry Blog 