According to UAB News, data published in the Journal of the American Dental Association showed that less than 1 percent of dentists in the United States were found to be COVID-19-positive. The data was collected in June 2020 during the height of COVID-19 infection spread in the United States. The study also found that 99.7 percent of dentists were utilizing enhanced infection control and prevention measures.

During the initial pandemic period, dentists were thought to be among one of the highest-risk professionals due to proximity with patients and aerosol-generating dental procedures. The reported data may indicate that dentists’ baseline infection control, prevention measures and personal protective equipment — as well as the enhanced measures — may have minimized risk and created safe treatment environments for dentists, dental staff and patients alike. 

The U.S. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), WHO (World Health Organization), and public health officials recommend wearing face masks to control the spread of the novel coronavirus, which causes COVID-19. People are now wearing many different types of face coverings, including bandanas, hand-sewn masks, and disposable medical masks.

Without any kind of nose or mouth covering, droplets can spray more than 8 feet, according to research from Florida Atlantic University. In many cases, mask choice is dependent on availability; people use what they have. According to healthgrades, how effective are each of these face coverings?

Here at Sparkles Dentistry, it is our hope that we all continue to take the right steps and appropriate social choices for public health and the safety of our family, loved ones and community at large.

Because the goodwill of those we serve is the foundation of our success, it's a real pleasure at this holiday time to say "thank you" as we wish you a full year of happiness and success.

During this holiday season, we are grateful for all of our patients and families for bringing your beautiful smiles to our office each and every time you visit.

Have a wonderful and safe start to the winter celebration season ahead!

Our highest priority is to keep all of our patients, team, and families as safe as possible. Thank you for your continued trust and loyalty as we work together.

Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.