OCT 25, 2020 POSTED BY: ATUL SHASTRY
Going to the dentist is a scary experience for some of us. The idea of someone scraping at the most intimate parts of our body can be frightening to some and discomforting to others. When you add in the stresses of the pandemic in a non socially distanced environment, those anxieties seem to multiply ten fold. Today, I’ll be discussing what it’s like to visit the dentist, and discussing what’s changed and how you can prepare yourself for your next check up!
When I got to my dentist’s office, I was greeted by a hygienist and a receptionist that were wearing two layers of masks as well as PPE. I was asked a few screening questions to evaluate my wellness, including:
Since, I was able to answer “No” to these questions, I was able to proceed. However, at AutoBrush, we recommend not visiting the dentist at all if you are able to answer “Yes” to any of these questions.
The hygienist that helped clean my teeth was wearing a medical gown with an N95 mask, covered with a surgical mask and a protective face shield. This made sense, as hygienists typically work with pneumatic and hydro tools that cause particulates to become airborne. My dentist came in, wearing a respirator mask to double check the work of her hygienist.
There were a few key differences during my cleaning that I wanted to call out:
My hygienist also noted that if they do find anything that required the use of power tools (such as fillings, grooves etc..), they’d reschedule me for a later date. Additionally, she filled me in on how they’re disposing of PPE. Each cleaning session required a fresh set of PPE gowns, a new surgical mask with new gloves. She also noted that the staff washes their hands an average of 100 times a day and she changes out her PPE almost 16 times a day. I felt incredibly safe knowing that our dental professionals were going to such great lengths to ensure that their patients and their staff remained safe.
As I left the office, I placed my mask back on scheduling my next appointment. I wanted to ask more questions from the receptionist who was very nice and she filled me in on the situation. Her emotions mirrored relief as she noted she was happy to be back at work, treating patients even if it was in a limited capacity. They noted that they’re doing everything they can to ensure that their patients remain safe and strictly following guidelines handed down by the ADA and CDC. This made me pause and really start to reflect on how much I really appreciate all of the dental professionals who are doing everything they can to care for their patients in this looming pandemic. Thank you to all of the dental professionals that help us have cleaner teeth.
At AutoBrush we're dedicated to working closely with dental professionals. We know that visiting the dentist is difficult during this trying time, and we're dedicated to improving our products to help meet our customers' needs. You can watch the video on the left to hear about what dentists think about AutoBrush! From all of us at AutoBrush, we hope you're staying safe and healthy!
I do absolutely love the concept of this brush. As a pediatric dentist, I see living proof day in and day out, that brushing is not readily done well by a majority of children. Typically it is due to lack of will and motivation. Making brushing more fun and “easier” is half the battle, and I believe that the AutoBrush goes a long way into doing this. If you find yourself and your child in this boat then I think giving this product a try is a good idea. If you find that it works I would recommend using it until the habit of brushing 2-3 times a day becomes solidified and then slowly transition into using a regular/electric toothbrush. You could also consider a combination which is what we do in our home. I let my girls use the AutoBrush for the morning brush as typically this is the brush that they want to skip, and then they use their regular electric toothbrush and floss before bed.
Dr. Mikaeya Kalantari
Are you tired of fighting with your kids to get them to brush their teeth? If so, you are definitely not alone! I am a dental hygienist and have been working in pediatric dentistry for many years. One of the number one complaints I get from parents is the struggle of getting their child to brush their teeth. Well look no further, I have found a solution for you! This automatic toothbrush is a true game changer for getting your kids to brush their teeth! It has super pumped up music and awesome beneficial lights that get your kids motivated to brush!"
Kelly Hancock, RDH