Even prior to the pandemic, dentists had a good track record on infection control. We have used many safeguards to protect our patients, such as rubber dams that limit aerosol emission during treatment and appropriate personal protective equipment, as well as protective barriers to cover frequently touched surfaces.
Healthcare agencies such as the American Association of Endodontists, American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control have called for additional measures in light of the virus, which our practice has adopted, such as extra PPE, more frequent disinfection of treatment rooms, reception room, new HEPA air filtration and proper physical distancing, and physical barriers.
One of the technologies our practice has integrated is the GentleWave procedure for cleaning and disinfection of root canals, which offers several benefits during this time of COVID-19:
* The GentleWave procedure is generally performed in our office in one visit, minimizing the inconvenience of a two-visit procedure, and thereby reducing a patients’ potential exposure to COVID-19. Your specific situation might require more than one visit however.
* The GentleWave procedure helps preserve more tooth structure, is minimally invasive, thus giving patients the opportunity to save their natural teeth.
* There is virtually no aerosol released during the GentleWave procedure. According to the Centers for Disease Control, some endodontic instruments create a visible spray that can contain particle droplets of water, saliva, blood, microorganisms, and other debris. Because the GentleWave system is a “closed-loop” system, this means it is designed to release virtually no aerosolized material into the air.
* Instruments used during the GentleWave procedure are pre-sterilized and used only once, eliminating any potential for cross-contamination between patients.
We hope that the information provided here answers many of your questions about endodontic treatment. If you would like additional information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Culver City Office Phone Number310-458-6677.