Submitted by Dr. Trista Onesti

The following information answers the many common questions related to the “new normal” that you and your child can expect during your next dental appointment at a pediatric dentist.  During the

COVID-19 pandemic, your safety and well-being are our top priority.  We hope this article will leave  you feeling informed and safe when it comes to your children’s oral care.

It is safe to go to your pediatric dentist: 
Our first responsibility is to our patients.  Our next responsibility is to pay attention to the latest guidance from our state and local governments and health departments, as recommended by the CDC, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association.  The AAPD has provided a comprehensive safety checklist for pediatric dentists to ensure the safety of our patient families and dental staff in this “new normal” environment.  A prescreening call will be obtained when scheduling.  Masks are mandatory for all who enter the building and must be worn before and after receiving care.  Additional infection control and cleaning measures have also been implemented. 

Do not put off your routine dental care:  
Now more than ever, we want our patient’s families to know that dental care for children is a medical necessity.  We appreciate and understand our parents’ concerns about the risks involved with resuming health care, so if you have any questions at all about your child’s need for a check up, please call or e-mail to discuss your child’s needs and your concerns.

Prepare your child for their dental visit: 
Let your child know that even though the office, pediatric dentist and staff may look a bit different, we are still the same inside.  Everyone will have to wait in their car, as there is no waiting room.  The toys and books are temporarily gone.  The staff will take everyone’s temperature as they enter the office and ask  them to either wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.  The dentist and staff members will be wearing additional personal protective equipment including hair coverings, face shields, and isolation gowns.  Even during our “new normal”, we want every one of our patients to know they still get their prize at the end of their visit.

Our office is located at 5255 Mayfield Road in Lyndhurst.  Call us at (440) 459-2100.