fbpx

MetropolMed

The Impact of COVID-19 on Cosmetic Dentistry

The Impact of COVID-19 on Cosmetic Dentistry

2020 has been an unprecedented year for the global community, with COVID-19 wreaking havoc on every aspect of life.

2020 has been an unprecedented year for the global community, with COVID-19 wreaking havoc on every aspect of life. From social distancing to economic downturns, we’ve all felt the impact in one way or another. But what about cosmetic dentistry? While it may not be a top priority during a pandemic, dental offices have remained open throughout the crisis, and their services are essential to many patients looking to improve their smiles. In this blog post, we’ll explore how COVID-19 has affected the world of cosmetic dentistry – from new safety protocols to changing consumer preferences – and what this means for both providers and patients moving forward.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

The field of cosmetic dentistry has seen a significant impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many elective procedures have been put on hold due to the risk of transmission, and patients are increasingly interested in minimally invasive options that can be completed quickly and with little risk.

In recent months, there has been a surge in demand for at-home dental care products and kits, as well as treatments that can be done without going to the dentist. These trends are likely to continue in the months and years to come, as patients seek out ways to maintain their oral health while minimizing their exposure to potential risks.

How has COVID-19 Affected Cosmetic Dentistry?

The global pandemic has had a profound effect on the way we live and work. Perhaps one of the most significant impacts has been on the field of cosmetic dentistry. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) reports that since the outbreak of COVID-19, over 80% of their members have seen a decrease in patients seeking cosmetic dental procedures.

There are a number of reasons for this decrease. First, many people are simply unable to afford non-essential procedures during these financially difficult times. Secondly, with the rise in cases of infection, people are understandably reluctant to visit dental offices out of fear of contracting the virus.

The AACD reports that the vast majority of their members are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of their patients and staff, including increased sanitation efforts and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). However, even with these safety measures in place, many people are still unwilling to take the risk of going to a dentist office.

The decrease in demand for cosmetic dental procedures has had a major financial impact on dental practices across the country. Many dentists have been forced to lay off staff or even close their doors permanently. It is uncertain what the long-term effects of COVID-19 will be on the field of cosmetic dentistry, but it is clear that it has been deeply affected by the pandemic.

Types of Procedures and Care Commonly Performed Before the Pandemic

Before the pandemic, the most common cosmetic dental procedures were teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding. These procedures are still performed today, but with extra precautions in place to ensure the safety of both the patient and the dentist.

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. It involves bleaching the teeth to make them several shades lighter. There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home. In-office teeth whitening is done by a dentist and takes about an hour. At-home teeth whitening kits are available for purchase from many retailers. They typically consist of a bleaching gel and mouthguard that is worn for a period of time each day or night.

Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are custom made to fit over the front surface of the teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of misshapen or stained teeth. Veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth or change the shape or length of teeth.

Bonding is a procedure in which tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the surface of the teeth and then hardened with a special light. Bonding can be used to improve the appearance of chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. It can also be used to close gaps between teeth or change the shape or length of teeth.

Changes to Common Procedures During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the entire world in unprecedented ways. The cosmetic dental industry is no exception. Many procedures that were once common are now either not possible or not recommended due to the risk of transmission of the virus.

Some of the most common changes to procedures include:

-Routine cleaning and exams are now being postponed or done virtually whenever possible. This is to minimize the amount of time patients spend in the dental office and to reduce the risk of transmission.

-If a procedure does need to be done in-person, extra precautions are being taken to ensure safety. This includes things like increased sanitation, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), and minimizing contact between patients and staff.

-Patients who have underlying health conditions or who are immunocompromised are being advised to delay any non-essential dental treatment. This is to protect them from any potential complications if they were to contract COVID-19.

These are just a few of the ways that dentistry has had to adapt in light of the pandemic. While it may be some time before things return to normal, rest assured that your safety is always our top priority.

Safety Precautions Taken by Clinics During the Pandemic

COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of our lives and the way we do business. The cosmetic dentistry industry is no different. Many dental practices have had to temporarily close their doors or significantly change the way they operate.

Despite the challenges, cosmetic dentists are still finding ways to serve their patients safely and effectively. Here are some of the safety precautions being taken by clinics during the pandemic:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All staff members are required to wear personal protective equipment including masks, gloves, and eye protection. Patients are also asked to wear a mask during their appointment.

Enhanced Infection Control Procedures: Clinics are regularly cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces and equipment. In addition, dental instruments are sterilized after each use.

Appointment Spacing: To avoid contact with other patients, clinics are spacing out appointments so that there is less foot traffic in the office. Patients may be asked to wait in their car until it’s time for their appointment.

Telehealth Appointments: Many clinics are now offering virtual appointments via telehealth platforms like Zoom or Skype. This allows patients to consult with their dentist from the comfort of their own home.

These are just a few of the safety precautions being taken by clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on how your favorite clinic is operating during these times, be sure to give them a call or check their website before making an appointment.

How Has COVID-19 Altered the Perception of Cosmetic Dentistry?

It’s no secret that the novel coronavirus has had a profound impact on every facet of our lives. The pandemic has forced us to re-evaluate our priorities and the way we live, work, and interact with others. This is particularly true when it comes to our health and wellness.

We’ve seen a major shift in the way people view their health and their overall wellbeing. Many are now taking a more proactive approach to their health, including their oral health. And, as a result, we’re seeing a surge in demand for cosmetic dental procedures.

Patients are now more interested in improving the appearance of their smile than ever before. They’re also becoming more aware of the connection between oral health and overall health. And, they’re willing to invest in their smile because they know it’s an important part of their self-confidence and identity.

The bottom line is that COVID-19 has changed the way we think about our teeth, our smiles, and our overall health. And, it’s clear that cosmetic dentistry will play an increasingly important role in helping us achieve our goals.

 

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on cosmetic dentistry. Many dental practices have been forced to close or limit their services due to safety concerns and disruptions in supplies and staffing. Despite this, many cosmetic dentists are still able to provide care with extensive precautions in place. Moving forward, it is important for patients and practitioners alike to stay informed so that they can make decisions that prioritize both health and aesthetics.