COVID-19

We want to reassure you that dentistry continues to be an essential service. We remain open and are here for your essential dental and dental hygiene needs. We continue our strict safety guidelines, as part of our safety program protocols, so your next visit is safe and comfortable. See below for all that we are doing to keep you safe:

• Enhanced patient protection measures: All of our staff have upgraded their protective gear, this includes appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). In between patients, we meticulously clean and disinfect rooms, as well as sterilize all instruments.
• A virtual waiting room: We have set up a virtual waiting room for you to check-in via text, and wait outside until your room is ready.
• Tech-enabled screening: We digitally pre-screen patients in advance for COVID-19 symptoms and risk factors to ensure our clinic stays COVID-free. We also screen our team members.
• Air filtration (HEPA): We have invested in high-efficiency air filtration systems that continuously clean the air. The clinic safety features include closed door operation to contain aerosols, and a centralized HEPA air purification system to filter air at 20 to 100 air changes per hour, depending on needs and conditions. HEPA filters are 99.97% efficient at removing particles 0.3 microns in size.

Your next appointment will be a little different than what you were used to. Dentists must follow the updated safety guidance from the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario and information from the Chief Medical Officer of Health when providing care during the pandemic. Here’s what you can expect:

• Appointments will be spaced out to allow physical distancing and disinfecting between patients. This might mean less flexibility when scheduling your appointment.
• You will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms both before your appointment and upon arrival at the dental office. Your temperature may be taken with a touchless thermometer when you arrive for your appointment.
• You will be asked to wear a mask or face covering while in the office except during treatment.
• Dental staff will be wearing more PPE than normal.
• Your office may ask that you come alone. There may be exceptions for small children and people who require assistance. If a parent or caregiver is allowed, they will also be subject to screening measures.
• You may be asked to call when you arrive and wait outside the dentist's office until your appointment. You would be notified when you can enter.
• The waiting room will not be open to everyone. Chairs will be spaced two metres (or six feet) apart. There will be no magazines, toys, or any other non-essential items in the dental office.
• Patients must clean their hands with a 70- to 90-per cent alcohol-based solution or soap and water when entering and leaving the dentist's office.
• Bathrooms will likely be closed to patients.
• Plan to pay by touchless payment, such as credit card or Interac.