Dear Patients
We're back, slower and safer, but we're back.
As an essential service provider, I have been allowed to operate on those who presented with serious dental emergencies under level 5 of lock-down. This instruction was passed under the national Disasters Management Act. Since moving into level 4, our scope of work has expanded to included work that is seen to be essential. So what does this mean?
The below is quoted from our Dental Associations guidebook:
"Essential services are deemed to be any service that is not only taking care of pain and sepsis but also any disease or dental problem that may lead to future pain, sepsis, and any other pathological process. This includes any treatment deemed essential to reduce the risk of further breakdown which may have a deleterious effect on the patient’s future. This does not include any treatment that is deemed elective such as cosmetic procedures or implant procedures that can be put off until such time as we have reduced the risk of cross-contamination of our clinicians and patients. "
To make it simpler to understand, I am now able to perform:
- Routine check-ups.
- Cleanings can be booked with my oral hygienist.
- Essential fillings and preventative treatments.
- Fitting of prosthesis to aid in improving function.
- Repairs and maintenance of existing prosthesis.
- Maintenance and follow-ups of existing implant cases and orthodontic cases.
Now more then ever our strict INFECTION CONTROL PROTOCOLS remains! The protocols outlined in my previous email will remain in place and to add:
- We are limiting our day to a maximum of 6 patients.
- We'll be working much slower than usual and ensuring that your safety remains at the top of our agenda.
I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for your loyalty and patience. I still believe the road ahead will be bumpy, with many unknown scenarios around the corner. We will continue to navigate through this with caution and care, adapting to whatever comes our way.
Emergency criteria
If you feel you qualify for the above criteria, please contact us on the practice WhatsApp number: 065 547 9413 or WhatsApp me directly on my cell: 082 331 4811. I will then arrange a time to call you and conduct a telephonic consultation to better understand the situation and guide you accordingly.
Should a visit to the practice be necessary
Should a visit to my surgery be necessary the following will apply:
- A specified date and time will be arranged, and a confirmation letter will be sent permitting you to travel for health reasons.
- You will be sent 2 different documents which you will need to complete and send back. A digital photo or scan will be acceptable as long as it is legible. Please keep your original signed copy at home.
- I request that you come alone to the appointment unless you are physically unable to. However, no other person can accompany you into the surgery.
- Please leave all extra belongings in your vehicle or at home, no personal items will be allowed to be placed anywhere in the surgery.
- You will be required to sanitize and wash your hands as per recommended protocol, both before and after the appointment.
- I will provide a pre-rinse of a 1% hydrogen peroxide solution which needs to be rinsed with for +/- 45 seconds before starting treatment.
- During treatment you will be required to wear protective eye-wear and I request that your hands remain in a comfortable position on your lap, avoid touching anything if possible.
- I will be following extremely strict infection control protocols and will always be wearing a mask and protective eye-wear. Please do not take offence.
- The surgery will be fogged, as is done in ICU’s across the world.
Please remember
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me. I know this is an extremely scary time for everyone and perhaps just getting some reassurance about your dental issue may be all you need. I am here to help and will make myself available to answer questions and chat should you need it.
Stay healthy, stay indoors and stay safe.
Faithfully,
Dr Marc Sher