To have enhanced health, it’s necessary to see a dentist on a regular basis to obtain oral care. For a safe and productive visit, dentistry should take place in a sanitary facility. When visiting a DDS in Glenpool for an initial visit, there are actions to take so you can safeguard against cross-infection. Implement the following suggestions into this visit to protect your oral health and overall health.
When visiting a DDS in Glenpool for the first time, it’s essential to view the surroundings of the office. The cleanliness of the reception area, treatment rooms, office area, and lavatories is a strong indicator of the seriousness a dentist takes towards his practice. Observe the reception area. Are the walls and floors clean? Ideally, a dental practice will use paint instead of wallpaper. Painted walls are easier to clean and keep sanitary. The floors should be free of grime, debris, and dust. While it’s hard to sterilize carpets and rugs, hospital-grade linoleum can be sterilized. It should be neat and orderly as well.
As you walk towards the treatment room, look at the hallways and office area. Are they tidy? Are there papers and items haphazardly scattered on the countertops? This can make it harder to clean these work-surfaces. Assess the condition of the lavatory. Is it stocked with soap and paper towels for convenient handwashing? All handwashing stations throughout the facility should have an ample supply of soap and paper towels.
Look for an autoclave validation. When this is not displayed, ask the office personnel to see a current copy. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for this document. An autoclave is a sterilization machine. To ensure that it works right, a dentist will use the services of an independent party. This company will send the dentist packets of infectious agents. These envelopes will be run through the autoclave to see if the microorganisms are killed. The third party will send the dentist a certificate showing the results of this test.
While most dentists are extremely cautious and vigilant to prevent cross-infection, a few dentists might not be. For this reason, it’s imperative to be an advocate for your own oral health. A dentist who operates under strict ethical and hygienic guidelines should be happy to help you with this task. For questions or concerns, consult with your dentist or a member of his support staff.
Elwood Avenue Dental provides quality dental care in Glenpool and caters to your schedule including evening hours and Saturday appointments. Visit them for more information.
