The Covid-19 pandemic impacted the lives of everyone, and it’s no wonder its effects have also impacted how dentists provide cosmetic dental procedures. Many changes occurred in response to the pandemic, and cosmetic dentistry has created remarkable trends that have changed how dental care is delivered to patients. We’ll be exploring those effects below as a brief overview of how dentistry has adapted to this new reality.
Exploring the Effects of the Pandemic on Cosmetic Dentistry
Among the many required services that people need during the pandemic, cosmetic dentistry has suffered, resulting in a decrease in procedures throughout the last few years to make way for more immediate, necessary procedures. It’s forced many cosmetic dentists to alter their practices, such as adapting to quarantine and the CDC-enforced social distancing. However, it’s taken us a few more years to see its long-term impact. These changes include:
- Patient Portals and Contactless Service: Many cosmetic dental practices had to emphasize contactless offices and encouraged patients to use patient portals to schedule appointments. These contactless offices worked with windows, tablets, and digital interfaces between the patient and the reception staff to reduce the transmission of viruses. For practices that continue to implement these measures, it’s helped transition them towards paperless services, contributing to less financial costs and improved efficiency.
- Teledentistry and Reduced Follow-Ups: Teledentistry helped patients schedule and meet up with their dentists for consultations. Patients receiving cosmetic treatments during this time were consulted and only scheduled for necessary follow-ups for their restorations. Because of these changes it’s helped practices become more efficient in providing their services. Because of this, patients and dentists report greater satisfaction in their care based on fewer in-office visits.
- Higher Standards of Cleanliness: Higher standards of cleanliness have reduced the overall spread of bacteria and viruses and helped offset the growth of the pandemic as the years passed. These effects include filtration systems for their workspace and constant wipedowns with disinfectants, masks, and latex gloves. For cosmetic dentists, this helped reduce oral disease transmission to patients, especially those with compromised immune systems and heart conditions that impact their dental care.
As the concerns of the pandemic are beginning to pass, more patients can receive and plan restorative treatments, including crowns, implants, veneers, and dentures. More people have become aware of their appearances during this time and, as a result, have shifted in focus toward aesthetic dental services. This also allows cosmetic dentists to better plan dental treatments, spacing out treatments appropriately to avoid complications.
Ask Your Local Cosmetic Dentist About Your Treatment Options
If you’re curious about restorative procedures that can change your smile for life, then the best way to learn more is by speaking with your cosmetic dentist for more information. Scheduling a consultation with them can give you options for treating your smile and, most of all, give you back your dream smile.
