As with many other professions, dentists and orthodontists have spent months reviewing every aspect of patient care, determined to find ways to provide the same quality care to their patients without compromising the health and safety of both the patient and members of their staff. The introduction of new formats such as remote orthodontic monitoring, virtual care, and other options are designed to address patient care without compromising their health and safety.
CDC Guidelines
Recognizing the unique challenges of providing quality dental and orthodontic services during a viral outbreak, the CDC drafted specific guidelines for dentists and orthodontists to follow when interacting with their patients. These guidelines include a host of recommendations for staff members, patients, the equipment used for dental and orthodontic processes, and the clinic setting where procedures take place. If a patient must visit their dentist or orthodontist in person, they will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms before being allowed to meet with staff. Patients will be asked to cooperate with new procedures during their office visit such as wearing a mask up until they have their procedure, as well as wearing their mask once again before leaving the treatment area. In addition, every effort will be made to minimize the risk to a patient of contracting COVID-19 from a staff member as well. Staff member health screenings will be mandatory, and work practices will be updated to accommodate changes needed to minimize the risk of viral transmission.
Remote Dentistry and Orthodontic Care
One of the ways in which Dr. Grosso can answer questions from her patients, provide routine exams, and monitor orthodontic progress is through a remote office visit. If a patient has concerns about meeting face-to-face with their dental professional because their immune system is compromised in some way, or if they aren’t feeling well yet still require a consultation, Grosso Orthodontics is offering virtual appointments. A remote visit or phone call, conducted by way of a video and web conferencing platform, allows Dr. Grosso to visit with her patients in a safe and secure, HIPAA-compliant setting.
New patients are also welcome to have their first appointment by way of remote orthodontic monitoring. During an initial consultation, Dr. Grosso can gather a patient’s dental history, discuss any current issues they are having, as well as provide an outline for what a possible treatment plan may include before a patient has an in-person visit. However, no treatment plan may begin without an in-person patient consultation that includes x-rays and a thorough exam.
Another, and even more unique way, that Dr. Grosso is able to continue providing orthodontic care, is by using ScanBox Dental Monitoring technology. ScanBox is a device that, when paired with your cell phone, allows you to send real-time images of your teeth and gums to Dr. Grosso. She receives the images, adjusts your treatment plan according to what she decides is best, and updates you, all without you ever having to come to the office. ScanBox artificial intelligence technology lets you have a comprehensive orthodontic experience with only 2 visits to the office.
Grosso Orthodontics and Dr. Lindsay Grosso are working hard to ensure that patient care continues uninterrupted.
