An Update from our practice (COVID-19)

We are preparing for when we get permission from the Government and the NHS to accept patients into the practice. Part of this involves giving you an update on the steps we are taking.

INFECTION CONTROL HAS ALWAYS BEEN A TOP PRIORITY

Our practice follows stringent standards of infection control so that when you receive care, it is both safe and comfortable. We are now focusing on new practice protocols in order to operate a safe and efficient dental practice for all our patients, our staff and our wider community following the COVID-19 crisis.

WE ARE WORKING HARD TO ENSURE YOUR SAFETY WHEN WE RETURN

You will note some changes when it is time for your next appointment. We are making these changes and revising our protocols to help protect you, our patients, and our team:

BEFORE ARRIVING AT THE PRACTICE, WE ASK YOU TO:

Thoroughly brush your teeth just before arrival

Wash your hands for 20 seconds before leaving your home

Complete a pre-appointment screening process

WHEN AT THE PRACTICE, WE ASK YOU TO:

Use hand sanitizer and to wear personal protective items when you arrive which may include disposable gloves, masks, shoe covers and hair covers (we will provide these items for you)

Allow us to take your temperature

We will ask you use antiseptic/antiviral rinse with a specific mouthwash

Complete a screening process questionnaire

Remain in your vehicle in the car park or outside practice if you used other transport until we contact you to enter the practice.

TO ENSURE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT, WE WILL:

Install perspex panels or ‘germ-guards’ along the reception desk

Clearly mark out social distancing recommendations

To minimise infection risk/contact with staff, we will either take payment in advance over the phone or ask you to bring cash in a plastic bag or wear gloves if use the card machine.

Manage appointments to allow for social distancing between patients

Set up a daily health screening checkpoint and log for the screening of all staff entering the workplace

Minimise staff interaction

Equip our dental staff with additional PPE when in surgery

Use ‘dry fogging’ machines that will decontaminate the surgery between each patient to ensure a safe virus-free environment

Decontaminate communal areas prior to practice opening, at lunchtime and at the end of the day

Use video and phone consultations whenever possible

Remove newspapers and magazines from the waiting room

As and when we hear advice from our professional governing bodies, we will keep you updated. Regardless of whether we are open or closed, you can still contact us.
You can telephone the practice on 01752 775693 or email us directly at info@crownhilldental.co.uk

We are available 7-days a week regarding any dental problems or concerns you may have during this outbreak. We will be able to offer advice, prescribe pain relief and antibiotics should your symptoms meet certain criteria. For dental problems we are unable to manage, we have access to refer patients to the COVID-19 dental emergency Hub network.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we are implementing to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice.