Pinoy Dentist

It was not seen that this protocol has been a double-edged sword to us and the Philippine economy. Although ECQ is proven to put a temporary stop spreading the Pandemic, it was also detrimental to the economy as it stops consumer spending activities that gives businesses earnings that would contribute to the country’s GDP.

Given this scenario, while certain locations have also been identified as COVID – 19 free, Modified or even General Community Quarantine have been imposed to the general public. Meaning, other businesses aside from the currently operating ones are given the permission to operate which includes Dental Clinics.

So, the question is, what rules should clinics like Dental World Manila need to implement during this trying times? New normal should be observed during this time of the year as vaccines are not yet discovered as of writing. But don’t let it get you discouraged, by simply following these simple rules would definitely address your need and keep you safe from the virus.

According to this article from ABS-CBN News, here are some of the guidelines to follow for dentists:

1. Dentists, including all of the members of its staff should were proper and complete PPEs.

2. All patients should be treated as potentially infected COVID-19 carriers where if the patient suddenly appears to have symptoms during dental practice, medical treatment should immediately applied.

3. Health workers on the Dental Clinics should seal their used scrubs before taking at home and only use it again after thorough washing.

4. Telephone screening should be done first before proceeding to appointments. Taking photos of the infected tooth during the screening is highly advised.

5. Minor dental procedures such as cleaning, fluoride treatment, restoration of asymptomatic lesions, orthodontic adjustment, and teeth whitening should be postponed for the meantime. While urgent procedures such as: pain, infection, oral-maxillofacial conditions, and trauma needing urgent procedures however must be addressed by dentists.

6. Given that the patient meet the requirements for urgent dental care, the PDA advises dentists to require them to fill up a screening form, including all of their companions. No-contact screening may also be performed.