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What has changed at SMILINE DENTAL HOSPITAL after Covid19?

One of the many knock-on effects caused by COVID-19 has been the impact on oral health. Specifically, visiting the dentist.

In March, the coronavirus pandemic forced most dental clinics in India to close, except for few emergency treatments. For the next few days many of our patients had their appointments cancelled and treatments postponed. At Smiline dental we offered free tele consultations by our dental specialists and guided patients in emergency situations.

This changed in June, when dental clinics and hospitals were given permission to reopen with a set of guidelines from the health ministry.

Just like any other retail sector, dentists had to adapt to their new normal.To help dental clinics reopen safely, dental practices have been handed a series of recommendations based on the latest evidence of the pandemic.

Any changes have been made to make your experience as safe and comfortable as possible. Here’s a summary of what you might expect at your visit at Smiline dental hospital..

Changes in scheduling an appointment

Before you visit our dental centers, our front office will be contacting you to check whether you feel well. Many patients who are asymptomatic may be carriers. For this reason it is suggested that all patients visiting a dental office be treated with due precautions. They will be asking you a few questions about your health and the health of the people you live with. Nobody with any signs of COVID-19 will be able to visit the dental clinic.

Appointments can only be made by telephone and we ask that you do not visit us without an appointment.

As a precaution It is best to arrive alone and on time (rather than early). This will minimise your time in the waiting room.


Changes on arrival for your dental appointment:

When you arrive at reception, a few changes have been made. The first might be that a member of staff¬ is waiting for you to check your temperature. This is likely to be done by an ear thermometer and is to check for signs of a fever.

The next noticeable change on arrival might be that you will be asked to sanitise your hands. This will be provided for you. There will also be a protective barrier at reception between the receptionist and you. You will be asked to sign a statement of consent preferably with your own pen.

You may be asked to wear a protective PPE and even shoe covers. We may also ask that you put any belongings in a clean bag.

When you enter the waiting room you will notice that it has been reorganised for social distancing. Be reassured that it is cleaned and sanitised frequently.


Changes to how dental teams work

The most important thing to know in the wake of coronavirus, is how our dental team is making sure you are safe during dental treatment. We can accept only the patient in the treatment room. In case of a young child or where absolutely necessary, attendant will be allowed only with PPE.

Firstly, the treatment room will be well ventilated. This means creating an airflow which does not recirculate, and that old air can leave the room as quickly as possible.

You will see that the dental team is wearing extra protective equipment, like PPE. As always, their equipment is fully sterilised.

The little sink next to the chair may also be covered up. This means no rinsing of your mouth. Instead, your mouth will be cleared with suction.

All dental practices will be using equipment and techniques with a lower risk of spray. Emergency procedures, which produce high levels of spray, will be done in a different room.

Non-urgent procedures may be delayed, and we are allowing more time in between patients. This allows us to scrupulously clean the treatment room between patients.


When you are leaving

The final changes during the new normal experience, is when you leave.

Firstly, it is safer to pay with a contactless credit or debit card or Google pay if you can, and use your own pen to sign any paperwork.

Usually, you might be handed a piece of paper or leaflet with advice or instructions about your treatment. In the short term, this will no longer happen. Instead, this information will be texted or emailed to you.

Finally,any belongings you may have deposited with us will be returned back to you now.


In summary

It’s important that you, as a patient, are comforted by the measures that are being taken. All changes that have been made for the safety of staff and patients alike.

We want to put your mind at ease and reassure you that we are doing the very best for your & our safety at Smiline dental hospital.

Alternatively, you can get in touch with our helpline 889753339 if you have any concerns or questions you may want to discuss with us.

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