What to expect when you visit our office.
electron microscopic image of a viral sample from the first U.S. case of COVID-19.. The Round viral particles (colored blue) contain cross-section through the viral genome, seen as black dots. Image Source: https://www.cdc.gov/media/subtopic/images.htm
Health and safety are the primary concerns of your healthcare providers during every visit you make to Fiddlehead! We have always followed the recommendations of the CDC, ADA and OSHA Infection Control and Sterilizations Protocols. In many cases Fiddlehead goes above and beyond the requirements because the health of our patients and team is of the utmost importance to our Doctors. We remain committed to maintaining a safe environment, regardless of the state of the pandemic.
As we adapt to the changing nature of COVID-19 and the ever-present cold and flu viruses, we’ve kept most of the protocols we adopted in 2020. Masks are welcome but not required in our waiting area, per CDC public guidance. Our dental team will continue wearing all personal protective equipment (including masks), we use enhanced cleaning protocols and proper air filtration in every treatment area, and more! Please let us know if you have any questions before or at your visit.
Here is what you can expect:
Our entire team must be able to attest that they meet the CDC guidelines for healthcare professionals before entering the office.
Your providers will be wearing masks during the treatment portion of your appointments.
Our waiting area has been arranged to encourage friendly physical distancing, and air purifiers are strategically placed throughout the office.
It hasn’t been easy due to demand, but we have purchased additional protective equipment like gowns, N95 masks, face shields and head coverings, which our team will wear when performing your dental care. (It is still your Fiddlehead family under all that gear!)
Each operatory has been equipped with a 4 in 1 HEPA Air Purifying System.
Please plan to be at the office 5 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. If you would like to be asked the screening questions privately please call 802-524-9774 to let us know you’ve arrived.
Masks are welcome but not required in our waiting area, per CDC public indoor guidance. Our dental team will continue wearing masks and following strict COVID-19 safety protocols during all exams and procedures because your health and safety are our top priorities.
Patients will be greeted by one of our team members upon entering the waiting area. We ask that you come directly to the front desk and introduce yourself. You will be asked the following questions:
Are you experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms? Yes / No
Are you aware of any contact with COVID-19 positive individuals within the last 10 days? Yes / No
Have you had a positive COVID-19 test within the last 10 days? Yes / No
***Please be aware that if you answer yes to any of these questions the day of your appointment, we will postpone your appointment per the CDC guidelines for wearing a mask in public after your quarantine or isolation period has ended. If you are experiencing symptoms, we recommend that you take an at-home Covid test or call your primary care provider or NMC’s urgent care to be tested.
While we are eager to see you, if you have tested postive or been exposed to Covid within the last ten days or if you currently have any symptoms of COVID-19, please refrain from visiting our office until you are well again. We will reschedule you for when you’re feeling better!
We know that was a lot to go through, thank you for taking the time to read it! With your help, we’ll be able to keep your treatment plan on track and keep our community safe.
Our community works best when we work together to keep each other healthy! See you soon!
Warmly,
Your Fiddlehead Family
