Here is what we are doing:

1. Infection control and preventing the spread of disease from one patient to another is a priority in our office EVERY DAY, ALL DAY.  Our infection control procedures have been in place since the first day our office was opened.  Preventing the spread of the coronavirus in the dental office is not different than preventing the spread of any other viral or bacterial infection.  

2. All instruments that are used in the mouth are HEAT sterilized, including all dental handpieces. (We have ALWAYS done this.)

3. Dental chairs and any other surfaces that are contacted by a patient are cleaned with hospital level disinfectant after every patient. (We have ALWAYS done this.)

4. Door handles, light switches and other items that are frequently touched are also routinely cleaned with hospital level disinfectant. (We have ALWAYS done this.)

5.  A HEPA air filtration unit is in operation to filter viruses, bacteria, allergens, etc. out of the office air. 

6. All patients are screened for COVID-19 symptoms EVERY day by completing health history questions and having their temperature taken.  Patients with any COVID-19 symptoms or who have had contacted with COVID-19 infected individuals, will be rescheduled.  

7. All staff members are screened for COVID-19 symptoms EVERY day by having their temperatures taken and their oxygen saturation measured.

8. Most of the time, only one patient is in the operatory area at a time.  Occasionally, two patients may be in the operatory, but they are 15 feet apart.

9. This office is not now, nor has it ever been, an assembly line type of practice.

10. Dr. Staggers and all staff members wear gloves, masks, gowns and goggles/faceshield when providing care for EVERY patient and EVERY procedure. (We have ALWAYS done this.)

11. The waiting room is cleaned several times per day, and there is no sign-in sheet, nor any other extra items in the waiting room.

12. If you would rather not sit in the waiting room, you are welcome to wait in your car.  Please call us to let us know that you are here, and we will call your cell phone when we are ready for you in the operatory.

13. Online virtual appointments are available if you do not want to come to the office in person. (We have ALWAYS done this.)

14. If you have any questions regarding our office's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please discuss them with Dr. Staggers.  You may reach her directly by calling 540-722-6700.  We want you to have peace of mind during your orthodontic treatment.