Due to the increasing cases of COVID-19 across the Commonwealth and the acknowledgement that some infected patients have minimal symptoms but may have person-to-person transmission potential, the Pa. Dept. of Health is directing all dental offices to cease all treatment except emergencies until further notice effective immediately. Providers who will need to close due to this notice should remain available to speak to patients and triage calls for dental emergencies, according to the department.
Although some dental emergencies are likely to occur, most dental facilities will not be able meet the stringent infection prevention and control requirements while community transmission of the COVID-19 virus is occurring.
While treating emergency dental situations, it is very important that the facilities are equipped with proper infection control training and supplies, which include negative pressure isolation rooms and HEPA filtration. Dental personnel should wear N95 masks, goggles, face covering shields and disposable gloves and gowns.