Over the past six months, many Canadians have experienced increased anxiety and stress as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
For orthodontic patients looking to get their treatments back on track, COVID-19-related closures have meant that some have had to wait for treatment maintenance, non-critical repairs, consultations, or to get their braces taken off, for a lot longer than initially anticipated. Despite feelings of uncertainty or stress around resuming treatment, patients can rest assured that orthodontist clinics are well equipped to welcome them back.
docbraces, a Canadian orthodontic network with locations across the country, is a great example of this.
Like many organizations, docbraces closed its doors in early March in response to the pandemic. It took that time during closures to prepare and plan ahead for when it would reopen and determine how it would best serve its clients when it did. When cities finally began to reopen, the docbraces smileSAFE Risk Management Framework helped guide the reopening of all docbraces orthodontic clinics across Canada. Guided by this framework, which is aligned with regional dental authorities and public health agencies, several enhancements including prescreenings, added personal protective equipment, continuous cleaning and a limited amount of patients in the waiting room, have been made to clinic operating protocols to ensure clinics are COVID-19 compliant “plus,” so that docbraces clinics and patients can feel confident about resuming treatment safely.
“We have always followed strict infection prevention and control procedures, and now we have implemented additional safety measures to ensure we are minimizing the spread of COVID-19 while our patients receive their treatment,” says Dr. Issam Abualreesh, orthodontist, docbraces Ottawa.
“I’ve been back to docbraces since they re-opened for an Invisalign check-up. The team helped me feel informed and at ease, from booking right through to my appointment. Their extensive safety protocols were clearly explained in my booking confirmation, so when I arrived, I knew exactly what to expect. Their screening, sanitation, directional signage, and distancing protocols were thorough and easy to understand. I was really impressed!” says Amy Karlin, a patient of docbraces.
With careful planning, physical distancing and an extra layer of cleansing, patients do not have to worry for their health and safety while receiving treatment at docbraces. COVID-19 has changed communities around Ottawa and the world, and most patients and their families are concerned for their health. Luckily, there have been minimal difficulties in implementing these new rules, as most patients are mindful of others and the importance of taking care of themselves and those around them during the pandemic.
docbraces has been able to safely perform all its regular orthodontic procedures with the help of its team members and patients. With upgraded personal protective equipment and added safety protocols, patients are guaranteed a safe experience!