Orthodontics and COVID19: What You Should Know

The novel coronavirus, also called COVID-19, has changed many of the ways we live our daily lives. While this situation continues to unfold, we follow the guidance of the state government as to how and when our practice can operate.

While you may know some basics about the virus, you may be wondering more specifically about how it may affect your orthodontic treatment. In many cases, your orthodontic treatment plan may be slightly altered or delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this blog, Joseph Yousefian, DMD, of Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults discusses how our practice is handling the COVID-19 situation.

Guidelines we’re following

On May 19, 2020, Washington state Governor Jay Inslee issued guidelines for practices that perform elective procedures, such as orthodontic work. Because of this, we have slightly changed how we operate. 

Our focus is on seeing patients in the safest possible manner. With this in mind, we generally only schedule one patient at a time and allow no visitors with the exception of parents accompanying minor children. We will take your temperature and ask you if you have had potential COVID-19 symptoms, such as a fever or cough. And as always, our staff will wash their hands between patients and wear face masks.

Care we’re providing

We’re beginning to see patients again, although slowly and cautiously. We may prioritize seeing patients with the greatest needs. For example, we may provide orthodontic care if:

Do know that we’re still available to treat emergencies. And if you’re not sure if it’s an emergency, call us and we’ll help you figure it out. And, if the brackets on your traditional braces have come loose, or if you’ve lost an Invisalign tray or a retainer, we may be able to help.

Checkups are on hold

Regular orthodontic checkups are still on hold for the time being. In the majority of cases, it won’t affect the outcome if you go a couple of extra months between checkups.

Good dental hygiene is also important if you’re currently wearing traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. Brushing and flossing regularly can go a long way toward maintaining the health of your mouth, especially during a time when appointments may be stretched further apart. It’s also important to avoid eating sticky or crunchy foods that could damage your braces. And if you have aligners, make sure to wash them regularly.

If you’re due to start treatment soon, we understand that this is a very exciting time as you wait to transform your smile. Unfortunately, new treatment plans will be slightly delayed as we deal with the COVID-19 crisis. But don’t worry. As soon as we can, we’ll get you on your way to your new and improved smile.

If you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment, or if you think you may be experiencing an emergency, please call or email Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults.

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