If there is any group that understands how easily disease can travel, it’s medical professionals like dentists. As a result, you may find during your next dental appointment that the dentist in Worcester and their team have taken personal protective equipment (or PPE) very seriously. This includes the use of face shields, which to some may feel unnecessary. However, in the time of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever for dentists and other medical professionals alike to have the right gear to protect their patients and themselves.
Covers a Wider Facial Area
You’ll notice that face masks are designed to not only cover the mouth and nose, but the entire face. This ensures protection for all mucous membranes, including the eyes, from splashes, sprays, and spatter of any bodily fluids. While goggles can offer similar protection, they are often not as comfortable and can also lead to significant marks on the dentist, hygienist, or assistant when worn for long periods of time. Face shields are typically fastened to the head, allowing for better comfort.
Ease of Use, Convenience and Better Communication
It’s very easy to don (wear) and doff (remove) face shields throughout the day, making them a convenient piece of personal protective equipment compared to more difficult options. This includes disposable gowns and hats. Furthermore, face shields do not negatively affect vocalization, ensuring that dentists and their team can communicate as effectively as possible with their patients and make them feel more comfortable.
Relatively Inexpensive
It’s no surprise that COVID-19 is making dental practices reevaluate their budgets as more funding is being allocated towards daily PPE. Accessing certain PPE may be difficult due to much higher demand, but thankfully face shields are generally inexpensive to manufacture. They also last longer despite this lower cost, allowing for more of a dental practice’s budget to be put towards PPE that must be disposed of after use.
Extends Life of Other PPE
It’s important to keep in mind that face shields are typically worn in conjunction with surgical masks, rather than replacing them outright. However, it can work to extend the life of facemasks, ensuring they last throughout the day and help cut down on costs on additional PPE. The moment a facemask becomes soiled in any way, it needs to be replaced immediately. Face shields work to reduce this because they don’t have to be disposed of once they are soiled or contaminated. After a thorough sanitization, they can be used many more times without compromising protection.
Dentists want nothing more than to protect their patients however they can, and a major part of that is having the right personal protective equipment. The next time you need to visit a dentist for care, you should be able to feel safe and comfortable the entire time you’re there!
About University Dental Group
The dentists and team members at University Dental Group work hard to create a safe and productive environment for patients. This includes the use of numerous types of personal protective equipment, including face shields. To schedule an appointment, you can contact them through their website.