Does my dentist need to
wear gloves and a mask, and how do I know he or she is using clean tools?
Your health is very important to your dentist. One of the ways that your
dentist helps you stay healthy is by preventing the spread of germs. One of
the best ways to do this is to use a protection such as gloves and masks. Your
dentist and other dental team members also wash their hands regularly. In
addition, they sterilize equipment used in the dental office and clean the
furniture and fixtures in the examining rooms. This system is referred to as
universal precautions. It means that every patient is treated in the same way
because patients don't always know if they're sick. It's always better to be
safe than sorry.
If you would like to know how this system is carried out in your dentist's
office, ask to be shown how it's done. Dentists welcome the opportunity to
ease their patients' concerns, rather than have them leave the office with
unanswered questions. Once you see the work that goes into making the dental
office a clean and safe environment, you will feel reassured.
It is worth noting that even though universal precautions are used, it is
still important to tell your dentist of changes in your health. This will help
your dentist suggest the right choices of treatment for you.
Asking questions and getting answers is a part of good health
care.
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