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By Glenn Hicks

dentistry

Concerns raised about lack of PPE ahead of May 4 dentistry restart

Apr 28, 2020 | 5:37 PM

A Prince Albert dentist wants the public to note the profession is not as ready as some might think for a return to work on May 4, citing a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Meanwhile, the body that oversees dentistry in this province says its members are working to secure the necessary equipment.

Dentists, like some other currently restricted medical services, will be able to resume their work next month as part of the first phase of the government’s re-open plan.

However, the local dentist, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told paNOW their supply company could not say if they could provide them with the PPE required to return to service.

“Why would I open my business back up when I can’t even place an order for more masks,” they said. “So, if we run out of masks we have to close again while keeping the bare minimum of masks for real emergencies.”

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The dentist said, “the reality is a lot of us can’t open due to a lack of PPE and a massive amount of other technicalities.”

They added they needed the government’s help to provide proper PPE and it should then be spread evenly among dental providers.

As part of a return to service, dental practices will follow protocols including patient risk assessment screening, temperature vital sign screening, patient hand hygiene, and fewer and staggered appointment times.

Personal protective equipment such as masks, eye protection, and gloves will be used for most procedures. However, a respirator, face shield, gown or lab coat and surgical bonnet will be needed for the dentist and their assistant for more complex procedures.

In a media advisory, the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CDSS) said dental offices will maintain provincial restrictions on social distancing, gatherings and implement CDSS Pandemic protocols.

“Dental care will be at a different pace and your dental office will look a little different. But rest assured that those people under all that personal protective equipment are still the same people you have come to trust for safe, quality dental care for you and your family,” Dr. Mitch Taillon, Associate Registrar said. “During this time of world-wide shortage, your Saskatchewan dentists are working diligently to source the required PPE as described in the member alert.“

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glenn.hicks@jpbg.ca

On Twitter:@princealbertnow