An important note for our patients:

 

While the world was grappling with an issue of enormous scale and human impact, our hearts went out to all those affected by the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). Our practice has always believed it is our role and responsibility to prioritize two things:

1) the health and well-being of our patients and team; and,

2) play a constructive role in supporting local health officials and our patients as we work to keep our community safe.

 

We are proud to say that our practice continues to exceed the standard for infection control by:

 

  1. Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE refers to equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. At Crowley & Shamir Family Dentistry, our team wears the highest level of PPE and will continue to do so long-term. These items will include but are not limited to N95/KN95 respirator masks, disposable gowns, face shields, eye protection, nitrile gloves and scrubs. 

 

  1. We use Hospital-Grade Disinfectants in-between EVERY PATIENT.

This is something that we have always done and will continue to do, regardless of Covid-19. We pride ourselves on maintaining the highest level of infection control throughout the office.

 

  1. Aerosol Elimination

In 2020, our practice purchased and now utilizes HEPA air purifiers and new extra-oral suction systems to minimize any aerosol concerns. Our high volume extraoral dental suction units remove droplets and aerosols associated with dental care. With an extensive medical grade filtration system, along with a UV light disinfectant, viral and germ products are eliminated.

 

  1. Single-Use Disposable Products

Our office utilizes single-use disposable materials whenever possible. Our PPE as well as many other products are disposable. This list includes but is not limited to: air-water syringe tips, suction tips, patient bibs and bib clips, head covers, etc.

 

  1. Anti-Bacterial/Anti-Viral Mouth Rinse

Patients at times are required to rinse with an anti-bacterial/anti-viral mouth rinse before treatment. This 1% hydrogen peroxide solution has been proven to reduce the salivary load of oral microbes, including 2019-nCoV. While this isn’t commonly used anymore, there may be instances that it is warranted.

 

  1. Measuring Body Temperature

While this was common practice in 2020 and 2021, we are no longer taking body temperatures prior to treatment.  During the height of the pandemic, we employed touch-less body temperature measurements prior to treatment as part of our screening process. Individuals with body temperatures above 99.5 degrees were rescheduled.  We believe that our rigorous screening process, including taking body temperature, helped keep our team and patients healthy during the height of the pandemic.

 

  1. Healthy Staff

Because our patients come in close contact with our staff members, we firmly believe in making sure that our staff is healthy and vaccinated.  If a member of our team is under the weather, they do not come to work and are seen by a physician for clearance to return. 

 

  1. Social Distancing

We are minimizing the number of people in our office to allow for social distancing and safety for all. We have lengthened treatment appointments and staggered them for this reason.  This is part of our long-term commitment to our patient’s health and will most likely continue for future years.  

 

Thank you for your support and for welcoming us into your lives.
Stay safe and see you soon!

 

Thank you for your support.