Greenwich Dentist Discusses COVID-19’s Impact on Dentistry
New York City, Greenwich Village, 26 August 2020 – Good Day New York Wake Up at 8 AM interviewed Dr. Todd Bertman to find out what patients can expect from the dentist during the coronavirus pandemic. In the interview, Dr. Bertman highlights the dangers of “mask breath” and whether or not people should see their local dentist for routine cleanings right now. He describes the fears around dental cleanings and the WHO’s advice on delaying routine dental visits.
Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist During the Pandemic?
The concern around dental cleaning during the COVID stems from the nature of aerosols. During a routine cleaning, your dentist will typically use a device called a cavitron that creates a fine mist. Once these aerosols are in the air, they can remain there for up to 4 hours. This can present a huge problem if an infected patient visits the dentist as it can cause cross-contamination between patients and staff.
In the interview, Dr. Bertman describes the extra steps Advanced Dental Arts takes to reduce the risk of infection to staff and patients. He points out that his team is “using more oral suction devices and HEPA filters to keep” to keep the air clean. He also explains why his Greenwich Village dental office prefers to use lasers for routine cleanings: “it’s mitigating the risk by preventing aerosols from entering the air and killing bacteria and viruses in the mouth instantly.”
Recently, there have been more complaints about “mask breath”. Essentially, patients are complaining about an odor coming from their masks, wondering what to do about it. Dr. Bertman points out the truth behind this recent phenomenon. Dental offices in New York and all over the US have been closed since the middle of March. The odor patients experience when wearing their mask is actually from a lack of routine dental care.
What Is Mask Mouth?
When asked about the symptoms of mask mouth, Dr. Bertman points out that the condition presents with “red gums, bleeding gums, dry mouth, [gum] recession, and odor.” Ultimately, he argues, if patients are concerned about mask mouth, they should make an appointment at their local dentist.
Finally, Dr. Bertman argues that dentists have plenty of experience in dealing with viral outbreaks and keeping patients safe during dental visits. He notes how dentists in Manhattan especially needed to be extra cautious during the AIDS outbreak in the 1980s. Essentially, dental staff views all patients as potentially ill to keep everyone safe. And he underscores that patients should feel safe when visiting their local dentist knowing that they’re in good hands.
For the full scoop, check out the interview here.
