Covid-19

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began and since the closing of our dental office seven weeks ago to all but emergency procedures, we have all been forced to experience many changes.  We are mindful of the many adjustments to everyday life and the strain that business closures and social distancing has put on communities, families and individuals.  We are also mindful of the many patients whose dental appointments have been postponed due to our office closure and we greatly appreciate the patience and understanding you have shown during this difficult time.  We have been monitoring the American Dental Association and Virginia Dental Association recommendations, as well as the direction from Governor Ralph Northam and we are pleased to report that we are opening May 11, 2020 for normal operations.  Of course, ‘normal’ is a relative term and there will be certain changes that you will notice when you return for your next appointment.  We will be following the ADA guidelines for safety and even going above and beyond them in many ways. These changes are meant to keep our patients and staff safe and healthy, and we appreciate your continued patience during this adjustment period.

Here are some of the new safety measures that you may notice:

• We will be screening all patients when confirming appointments for fever, cough, body aches, and shortness of breath.
• We will check your travel history within the last 14 days to/from an infected area.
• We will make sure you have not had close contact with a known or suspected COVID-19 patient or a symptomatic individual within the last 14 days. Those patients who answer yes to any of these questions will be asked to postpone their appointments for the safety of staff and others.
• When you come in for your appointment you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to the same effect, as well as have your temperature taken with an infrared thermometer.
• When you enter and exit the office we ask you to please wear a mask or face covering and use the hand sanitizer available at the front desk.
• As social distancing will still be in effect when we re-open, we would like to limit the number of people in the reception area. We encourage patients to check in via text or phone call and ask that you to wait in your vehicle until summoned into the office for your appointment.  We also ask that you to come alone if possible.

You will also notice that we will be wearing additional barriers, such as face shields and surgical caps, and we will be employing additional measures behind the scenes to ensure the safety of you, our patients and our highly skilled staff members.  We appreciate the patience and understanding you have shown throughout the last several weeks.  We are aware that many of you have been waiting an inordinate amount of time to be seen and we will prioritize your treatment appointments when scheduling for the coming days.  Those patients whose appointments have been postponed will be contacted and scheduled as soon as possible.  We are humbled in the trust you place in our highly trained and skilled team to provide you the best dental treatment available.  We wish you all continued safety and health and look forward to seeing you again soon!