Infection Control Policy

“When you visit Periodontal Associates, Inc. we want you to feel comfortable and safe.” – Tina, Infection Control Coordinator

As part of our commitment to you, Dr. Hess, Dr. Davis and Dr. Streem and our team adhere to the highest standards of sterile dentistry and infection control, following the recommendations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  When you come to our office, you can be certain that your oral and overall health are in good hands. 

Since our post-COVID-19 re-opening in May 2020, our already very high standards have been raised to the recommendation of State and Federal agencies.  We want you to notice the extra steps we’ve taken to protect both you and our staff.  New policies may surprise you but  please know that the safety of both our patients and our staff is so important to us.

Dental hygiene and surgical appointment times will be extended in order to thoroughly disinfect your treatment room and minimize physical cross-over of patients in the office.  We will ask you to stay in your car until your appointment time and to complete any required paperwork in your car.  We will ask you to come to your appointment unaccompanied (as much as possible) as we are limiting the number of people in our waiting room and our treatment rooms.  We will ask you to disinfect your hands and your mouth once you reach our treatment rooms.  

We follow strictly the extensive infection control recommendations outlined by the CDC, OSHA, and the EPA.  In many cases, we have always gone above and beyond these requirements to ensure that we are providing enough protection for your health and safety.  During the COVID-19 era our protocols have been adapted and enhanced to new recommendations.  Some of our infection control and safety measures include:

  • Eye protection for both our patients and our dental professionals
  • Disinfectant and hand soap
  • Gloves
  • Face masks
  • Chemical disinfection of all surfaces
  • Thorough sterilization of all equipment before and after it is used
  • Disposable materials and tools (to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination)

Your health, safety, and comfort are our number one priority.  We will take all of the necessary steps to protect you and your family when you visit our practice.