At Lakewood Dental Group, we recognize the very real concerns about the spread of infectious diseases. For Dr. Shaun Sigurdson and Dr. Mihir Patel, your health and safety are the top priorities. Your Dallas dentists, along with their team, closely follow the CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health Care Settings. With our meticulous cleaning and sterilization, there is virtually no risk of cross-contamination during dental treatment. 

As we return to normal in our post-COVID world, the last thing you need to worry about is feeling unsafe during your dental care. Contact us today to schedule treatment in a safe and hygienic environment. 

What sanitation methods do you use?  

There is an important distinction between disinfection and sterilization. Disinfection kills most bacteria, while sterilization destroys all harmful microorganisms using heat or chemical cleaning agents. We sterilize all surfaces that come in direct contact with our patients, and we disinfect all environmental surfaces. These include:

  • Walls
  • Floors
  • Sinks
  • Light switches
  • Cabinet handles
  • Faucets 
  • Computers

How do you clean dental tools between patients?

We sterilize all handpieces with heat, following manufacturer and FDA guidelines. 

Do you wear masks in the office? 

Yes! Although patients obviously cannot wear a face mask during treatment, your provider will remain masked while caring for your teeth.

How do you dispose of extracted teeth? 

In the office, extracted teeth are considered a biohazard and will be disposed of in a properly labeled waste container. However, if you desire, we can give you your tooth to take home.

I have a service animal. Are there special procedures in place?

Service animals do not pose any higher risk of infection than humans. Therefore, properly trained service animals are allowed to stay with you during all stages of treatment, and we do not have to use any special sterilization protocol beyond our regular techniques.

Does dental treatment pose a risk of infection by a bloodborne pathogen?

Bloodborne pathogens, like HIV and Hepatitis B, can spread through the air, so you may be concerned about transmission from aerosol dental instruments. Barriers, like shields and surgical gowns, rubber dams, and proper positioning dramatically reduce the risk of exposure. Further, the CDC reports that there is no known case of aerosol transmission of a bloodborne pathogen.

Schedule a Safe, Low-Risk Appointment

When you visit a Lakewood dentist at our office, you can rest assured that you are in safe and competent hands. Learn more about our infection control policies when you call 214-827-1885. Both new and returning patients can also schedule an appointment online.