COVID-19: Dental Board Update

Dental healthcare workers are on the front line of the efforts to minimize the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have identified the aerosols created by high speed hand pieces and ultrasonic or piezo scalers in dental offices as a major concern for the spread of this virus. 

The CDC and the American Dental Association (ADA) have recommended that elective, or non-urgent dental procedures be postponed to help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.  The Missouri Dental Board supports these recommendations and urges Missouri dentists to adhere to them.  Dentists are strongly encouraged to take the necessary steps to insure the safety of their patients, staff and themselves by limiting opportunities for this virus to continue to spread.  We must all work together and do our part to help manage this serious risk to public health.