All Smiles Family Dentistry - Dentures, Extractions, Dental Implants, Quick Dentures
# Staying Safe at Your Next Dental Appointment
A trip to the dentist doesn't need to be scary. While no medical procedure is entirely without risk, your dentist takes many precautions to keep you safe and comfortable. When you understand the safety protocols dentists follow, you can feel at ease for your next dental visit. Read on as we demystify dental appointment safety from the experts at All Smiles Family Dentistry.
## Rigorous Infection Control
Dentists adhere to stringent infection control practices to prevent the transmission of illness in the dental office. We sterilize all instruments and equipment between each patient use. We utilize personal protective equipment like masks, gloves, and eyewear. Numerous health and safety organizations audit our protocols regularly. You can rest assured that we maintain a sterile environment.
## Use of X-ray Shielding
Digital x-rays provide detailed images to aid diagnosis; however, radiation exposure should always be limited. We use lead shielding on your body and thyroid collar to focus x-rays only on the area being examined. With shielding and digital technology, radiation levels are extremely low. X-rays are entirely safe when proper precautions are taken.
## Careful Monitoring Under Anesthesia
For extensive dental work, we may recommend sedation or general anesthesia to maximize comfort. Specially trained anesthesiologists administer and monitor anesthesia completely safely. Vital signs including oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure are tracked throughout procedures to avoid complications. With an anesthesiologist's expertise, anesthesia poses minimal risk.
## Diligent Allergy Precautions
Please inform our staff if you have any product allergies or sensitivities. We are meticulous in reviewing your dental history and asking about allergies before procedures. If you have a latex allergy, we use latex-free products. With local anesthetic, we first perform allergy testing. Identifying allergies ahead of time prevents adverse reactions.
## Care With Dental Tools
Modern dental tools allow us to work precisely and non-invasively on teeth. We use protective glasses and gentle retraction methods to avoid contact between tools and soft tissues. Slow-speed suction systems prevent debris from contacting your airway. While dental instruments may seem sharp, they are entirely safe in trained hands.
## Focus on Sterilization
As mentioned, sterilization of instruments helps prevent the spread of illness. We utilize autoclaves and chemical sterilization techniques that completely eliminate infectious pathogens. Fresh sterile packs are opened right before your treatment. You never have to worry about inadequate sterilization at our office.
## Attention to Mercurial Safety
The mercury in older *dental fillings* posed potential health risks. Today, composite resins have replaced amalgam fillings nearly entirely. On rare occasions amalgam removal is needed. We follow meticulous mercury hygiene protocols using air filtration, water irrigation, and evacuated *dental dams*. Safety comes first.
## Trust Your Dental Appointment is in Good Hands
While no medical care is completely without risk, we want to reassure you that dental appointments are extremely safe. Your dentist has invested many years in education and training to provide healthcare safely. Strict regulations also govern dental practices. We hope this overview has helped address any dental safety concerns. Please reach out with any other questions! The team at All Smiles Family Dentistry looks forward to seeing you at your next visit.
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