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The Colorado Dental Board is providing information in an effort to mitigate factors contributing to the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) for the safety of professionals, due to the physical contact and close proximity necessitated by the profession.
The Colorado Dental Association, in guidance released Monday, March 16, in consultation with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Governor’s Office, stated “at this time, there is not a state or national requirement for dentists to cease practicing, however, the decision is ultimately up to each dental practice, and practice owners are encouraged to assess all risks associated with dental staff and patient safety.”
The CDA simultaneously issued screening information for providers. Guidance narrowly focused on the profession also can be found from the American Dental Association.
Please note: The Division of Professions and Occupations may issue additional guidance in this area in the coming days, so please continue to check your email or visit the DORA COVID-19 Updates for Licensees & Consumers page on our website.
Numerous other resources available to dental providers stress following current, standard infection control guidelines. The CDC's Summary of Infection Prevention Practices in Dental Settings: Basic Expectations for Safe Care provides some updates. At the same time, licensees should still closely follow the CDC's Recommendations from the Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings,
Professionals may find a CDC article helpful covering What Healthcare Personnel Should Know About Caring for Patients with Confirmed or Possible COVID-19 Infections.
Finally, while dental professions were not specifically included in the CDC's COVID-19 general guidance, they still may use the recommendations for screening and triaging patients with suspected COVID-19 symptoms and/or exposures.
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