Safety protocols for dental practices in the COVID-19 era

Abstract

Aim Aim of this paper was to provide safety and operatory protocols for providing dental care during the COVID19 pandemic. Data sources The protocol is based on summarising the existing literature, published on different aspects of dealing with the pandemic situation. This protocol was established as an international collaboration among three dental universities: Hadassah School of Dental Medicine Israel, the University of Rochester Medical Centre USA, and the University of Pennsylvania USA. The details of the virus-transmission and its impact on dental care are discussed. Additionally, safety and operatory protocols for urgent and emergency dental care are detailed with a special focus on endodontic and surgical dental care. Conclusions A protocol detailing the safety and operatory measures to be taken while giving the dental care in the COVID-era is provided. The primary aim is to prevent any cross-contamination while allowing the provision of urgent and emergency dental care. Aerosol-producing and other elective procedures should be avoided.