As some states are preparing to consider reopening their dental offices, the ADA has issued interim guidance related to PPE. In these states that are considering reopening when the state mandates are lifted, the ADA is encouraging dentists to exercise professional judgment and carefully consider the availability of appropriate PPE to minimize risk of virus transmission.
Currently, FDA approved tests for COVID-19 are not available to dentists in the U.S. Therefore, dentists should be aware that asymptomatic healthy appearing patients cannot be assumed to be COVID-19 free. The ADA noted that local or state government decisions regarding closures, including restrictions regarding elective health care, supersede the association’s recommendations. Additional guidance documents are expected from the ADA in the near future regarding protocols for office and treatment procedures.
Read the statement.
Read the guidance on masks and face shields.
Read the guidance on understanding mask types.