COVID-19 Policy/Procedures Update

We are here and are offering all services. We wanted to let you know what we are doing to keep you safe as you return to our practice, your happy dental home!

Dental health is whole-body health and vital for a strong immune system-a key element to avoiding added vulnerability to COVID-19. When you choose to come see us, know you are in the safest possible hands. Prior epidemics such as SARS, HIV/AIDs and others have prepared us, allowing the advancement of techniques for dealing with highly communicable diseases. We are prepared to handle the threat of COVID-19.

You’ll immediately notice changes in how we greet you and how the processes of what we do in our office have changed. We wish we could give you a hug, but for now keeping you and our team safe is our number one priority and the greatest gift we can offer. We want to cover a few details of what’s to come.

First, you’ll get the American Dental Association wellness screening form via text message 2 days prior to your appointment. Just click on the link and answer the 8 short questions. We must have this screening form to be able to see and treat you.

Second, when you arrive, please call or text HERE to 215-673-1333 from your car. You’ll receive a text telling you when to enter, you’ll be greeted by a friendly set of eyes (we will be wearing a mask) and you’ll be screened with temperature and review of your screening form.

Third, we will limit the people “sitting” in our reception room and honor the social distancing protocols in place. For this reason, it is recommended you do not bring others to your appointment unless it is necessary.

Fourth, here’s what we’re doing to keep you and your family safe!

• COVID-19 screening for patients and dental personnel.
• Implementing precautions against the transmission of the virus. Dentists and team members will wear respirator masks and face shields when they are within 6 feet of dental procedures likely to involve aerosols.
• Using only handheld instruments and low-speed polishing tools for hygiene services.
• Reducing aerosolization as much as possible through the placement of HEPA air purifiers throughout the office and special chairside suction equipment.

We will follow the highest standards to protect all involved. This means we choose to make some additional changes that are not mandatory but suggested. Working with fewer patients for longer appointments to provide social distancing and lower occupancy along with the high cost of PPE has impacted our bottom line significantly. Rather than an across the board fee increase or a $25.00 charge like many are doing, we will pass on a minimal Compliance Fee of $10.00. This will allow us to remove the fee should our protocols be lifted or changed. The American Dental Association has recognized the need for this and has created a code to submit this fee to your insurance for reimbursement. This is a new road to navigate and daily we learn more. We appreciate your loyalty and understanding during this time. We are doing everything we can to keep you and our team safe and continue to provide the care you’ve come to know and trust.

Yours in service,

Drs. Allen and Brian Shapiro and Team