So much has changed in the last year and a half, hasn’t it? The way we work, how/where our children learn, how we celebrate life’s milestones, and how we make everyday decisions. And parenting is full of decision-making opportunities, isn’t it?!
For a lot of us, some of our recent decisions have included our children’s return to in-person school after more than a year. Or maybe figuring out how to safely negotiate travel, or deciding if it’s okay to let your kid attend a birthday party. Some days, the decision fatigue is exhausting. But I’ve also found the daily decision-making process to be chock full of opportunities to teach and demonstrate safety-conscious, socially responsible decision-making and healthy lifestyle choices to my children.
Going Back to the Dentist
Truth be told, a lot of us have delayed or missed routine dental exams and cleanings. In fact, we recently had to postpone our kids’ dentist appointments because we were quarantined. But now is a great time to get back to the dentist’s office and catch up on those important appointments!
Whether you’re looking for a local pediatric dentist or just wondering about current protocols, here are 3 things to ask about as you return to the dentist:
Cleaning and Sanitation Practices
Maintaining a safe and sanitary environment is an extremely important aspect of pediatric dental care. Whether or not we’re in the midst of a pandemic. As you look for a pediatric dentist or prepare to return to the dentist after some time away, be sure the office environment is clean and sanitary. The American Dental Association (ADA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have outlined standard infection control protocols and practices for dental settings.
Screening for Staff and Patients
Consistent screening of patients and staff is also important when it comes to selecting a pediatric dental practice. Is there a questionnaire patients need to complete when they arrive for their appointments? Temperature checks? What about for staff? Is the screening process something you are comfortable with?
Capacity Limits
The number of people in a given space is also something to think about. Many practices will space appointments out and limit the number of people in the office to allow for appropriate distancing and cleaning, but every office is different.
Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist
When dental offices reopened after the shutdown last year, I was very pleased to learn about the protocols Dr. Christopher Bob implemented at his local practice. During that time, his practice made several changes above and beyond the standard protocols to prioritize the safety of patients and their families. Their additional safety measures include:
- COVID testing for Dr. Bob and his entire staff
- HEPA air purifiers and germicidal UV lights placed throughout the office
- Daily fogging with a hospital-grade, EPA approved sterilizing agent for use against COVID19
- Daily temperature screenings for Dr. Bob and every member of the staff
These strict covid protocols are still in place–which is especially important with kids going back to school and flu season just around the corner. You can read more about what to expect at Dr. Bob’s here.
Call Dr. Bob Today
There are obviously many things to consider when it comes to selecting a pediatric dentist for your family. Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist is a small boutique practice conveniently located in South Miami. If you are looking for a dentist who will customize and provide the highest level of personalized dental care for your child(ren), call the office at 305-397-8214 or click here to schedule an appointment today. You’ll see for yourself why Dr. Bob is the dentist your kids will beg to see!
Did you hear? Dr. Bob Oral Care recently created and launched the 1st and only US-based unflavored fluoridated toothpaste on the market! Check it out here.
