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Your Comfort Comes First: How Sedation Dentistry Can Transform Your Dental Experience

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young woman relaxed in a modern dental office

Does the thought of visiting the dentist make your palms sweat? For millions of Americans, dental anxiety is a real and significant barrier to receiving essential oral healthcare. If you’ve had negative experiences in the past, have a sensitive gag reflex, or simply feel nervous about treatment, know that you are not alone. At Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA, we believe that your comfort is paramount. That’s why local experts Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin offer sedation dentistry to help you relax and get the care you need without fear.

Sedation dentistry uses safe and effective methods to help patients enter a state of deep relaxation during their appointments. This approach makes it possible for those with dental anxiety to undergo procedures comfortably, from routine cleanings to more complex restorative work. It’s not about being “put to sleep”; it’s about creating a calm and stress-free environment so you can prioritize your oral health.

Finding the Right Sedation Option for You

At Chaffin Dental Care, we understand that every patient is unique. Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin take the time to listen to your concerns and carefully review your medical history before recommending a sedation option tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to ensure you have a positive and comfortable experience every time you visit.

We offer two popular and highly effective types of sedation:

Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)

One of the most common and safest forms of sedation, laughing gas is inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. Within minutes, you’ll begin to feel a sense of warmth, calmness, and well-being. You remain fully conscious and able to communicate with our team throughout the procedure. One of the biggest advantages of nitrous oxide is that its effects wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed, allowing you to drive yourself home and resume your day with no lingering grogginess.

Conscious Oral Sedation

For patients with moderate anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures, conscious oral sedation is an excellent choice. This involves taking a prescribed pill about an hour before your appointment. By the time your treatment begins, you will feel deeply relaxed and at ease, though you will still be awake and able to respond to questions. While you are conscious, many patients feel so relaxed that they have little to no memory of the procedure afterward. Due to the sedative effects, you will need a friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment.

Don’t Let Fear Compromise Your Smile

Avoiding the dentist due to anxiety can lead to worsening oral health problems, which may eventually require more extensive and costly treatments. Sedation dentistry breaks down that barrier, empowering you to restore your smile and improve your overall health.

If you are in the Spokane area and have been putting off dental care because of fear, we invite you to have a conversation with us. Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin are here to help you feel at ease. Contact Chaffin Dental Care today to learn how sedation dentistry can make your next visit a comfortable, positive, and stress-free experience.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Root Canals: Why You Shouldn’t Fear Saving Your Natural Tooth

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The phrase “root canal” can cause anxiety for many people, but it doesn’t have to. At Chaffin Dental Care, we want to clear up the misconceptions surrounding this valuable procedure. Led by Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin, our Spokane, WA, team uses modern techniques to make root canal therapy a smooth and comfortable experience. More importantly, it’s often the best way to save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Your body often gives clear signals when a tooth’s nerve is in trouble. An infection of the nerve, also called the pulp, can be caused by various issues, including deep decay, trauma to the tooth, cracks, chips, or even repeated dental procedures.

Watch for these common signs:

  • Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the source is removed.
  • Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.
  • A small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth.
  • Discoloration or darkening of the tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule a visit. Ignoring them can lead to a more serious infection or the loss of the tooth.

Modern Technology Makes a World of Difference

The biggest myth about root canals is that they are intensely painful. In reality, the procedure is designed to relieve the pain caused by the infection, not create more. Thanks to advancements in dental technology and anesthetics, a root canal is often no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.

At Chaffin Dental Care, we use precise tools and techniques to efficiently access the inside of the tooth. Root canal therapy involves carefully removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inner chambers, and then sealing the tooth to prevent future infection. Our goal is to eliminate the source of your pain and save your tooth from extraction.

Saving Your Natural Tooth, One Canal at a Time

Preserving your natural tooth is always the best option. It helps maintain proper chewing function, normal biting force, and a natural appearance. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth, avoiding the need for more complex procedures like bridges or dental implants.

Some teeth, particularly molars, have multiple canals that require treatment. Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin take the time to meticulously clean and treat each one with the utmost precision and care. This thorough approach ensures the infection is completely removed, giving your tooth the best possible chance for a healthy future.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t let fear stop you from seeking help. Contact Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA, today to learn how we can restore your comfort and save your smile.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Is It Just a Little Bleeding? Early Signs of Gum Disease in Spokane

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Man brushing teeth suffers from inflamed, bleeding gums as a symptom of periodontitis, poor oral hygiene and dental car

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, yet many people overlook the subtle warning signs of gum disease. Often painless in its initial stages, this common condition can quietly progress and lead to serious oral and overall health problems if left untreated. At Chaffin Dental Care, our team, led by Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin, is dedicated to helping our Spokane community understand how to spot the early indicators and take control of their gum health.

Recognizing the Early Indicators of Gum Disease

The earliest stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. It’s an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Paying attention to your mouth can help you catch these signs before the condition advances.

Common early warning signs include:

  • Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Inflammation can make them appear puffy and reddish.
  • Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing: This is one of the most common signs, but it’s never normal.
  • Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis): Bacteria trapped in plaque can release unpleasant odors.
  • Gum Recession: You may notice your teeth looking longer as your gums begin to pull away.
  • Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Receding gums can expose the tooth root, making it sensitive to hot or cold.
  • Changes in Your Bite: Your teeth may feel different when you chew.

Is Early Gum Disease Reversible?

The good news is yes, in its earliest stage (gingivitis), gum disease is often completely reversible. With prompt professional care and a commitment to improved at-home habits, you can restore your gums to full health. The key is to act quickly before the condition progresses to periodontitis, a more severe form that involves bone and tissue loss.

The Hidden Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease

When gingivitis is ignored, it can advance to periodontitis, which poses significant risks not just to your mouth but to your entire body. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to:

  • Bone and Tooth Loss: The infection can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out.
  • Systemic Health Links: Chronic inflammation from gum disease has been linked to serious health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and complications during pregnancy.

Practical Steps for Healthy Gums

You have the power to prevent and reverse early gum disease. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Brush and Floss Daily: This is your first line of defense against plaque.
  2. Use the Right Tools: Consider adding interdental brushes or a water flosser to your routine.
  3. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Limit sugary foods and drinks that fuel plaque bacteria.
  4. Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of gum disease and hinders healing.
  5. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings are essential for removing hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t remove at home.

How Chaffin Dental Care Can Help

At our Spokane, WA, dental practice, we provide comprehensive gum disease treatments tailored to your needs. Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin and our skilled hygiene team can help you prevent and stop the progression of periodontal disease with services like:

  • Professional cleanings and personalized home-care coaching
  • Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline
  • Localized antibiotic therapy to target infection
  • Periodontal maintenance to keep your gums healthy long-term

If you notice any signs of gum disease, don’t wait for it to get worse. Protect your smile and your health by taking action today.

Schedule your periodontal evaluation with Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA. Call us to book your appointment and take the first step toward healthier gums.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Got a Chipped Tooth? Veneers Could Be Your Smile’s Best Friend

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closeup of a man in blue shirt with a chipped front tooth

A chipped tooth can be more than just a minor imperfection—it can affect your confidence and make you hesitate to share your smile. Whether it happened from a sports injury, an accident, or biting down on something hard, the frustration is real. The good news is that you don’t have to live with it. At Chaffin Dental Care, we offer a reliable and beautiful solution: dental veneers.

What Are Dental Veneers and How Do They Work?

Think of a dental veneer as a custom-made, wafer-thin shell of durable porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of your tooth. It’s designed to look just like natural tooth enamel, allowing it to cover imperfections like chips, cracks, or gaps, instantly restoring the tooth’s appearance.

Our process, led by Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin, is a meticulous and personalized journey to your ideal smile:

  1. Consultation: We start by discussing your goals and examining your oral health to ensure veneers are the right choice for you.
  2. Smile Design: We evaluate your tooth’s shape, size, and color. Together, we select the perfect shade of porcelain to create a seamless, natural look.
  3. Preparation: A very small amount of enamel is gently removed from the tooth’s surface. This is a crucial step that ensures the veneer fits perfectly and doesn’t look bulky.
  4. Impressions: We take a precise digital scan or impression of your prepared tooth. This becomes the blueprint for our dental lab to craft your custom veneer.
  5. Bonding: Once your permanent veneer is ready, you’ll return to our office. We’ll check the fit and color before permanently bonding it to your tooth. We then check your bite to ensure everything feels comfortable and functions correctly.

The Benefits of Choosing Veneers for a Chipped Tooth

Veneers are a popular choice for fixing chips for several compelling reasons:

  • A Natural Appearance: Porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, making your restoration virtually undetectable.
  • Durability: Veneers are strong and can last for many years with proper care.
  • Stain Resistance: Unlike natural enamel, porcelain is highly resistant to staining from coffee, tea, and wine.
  • Minimal Preparation: The procedure conserves more of your natural tooth structure compared to a full crown.
  • Instant Symmetry: A veneer can immediately restore a tooth’s shape and size, bringing balance back to your smile.

What to Consider Before Getting Veneers

While veneers are an excellent solution, it’s important to understand a few key considerations:

  • Irreversible Process: Because a thin layer of enamel is removed, the process is not reversible.
  • Cost: Veneers are a premium cosmetic-restorative treatment. We can discuss costs compared to alternatives like dental bonding.
  • Potential for Damage: Just like natural teeth, veneers can be damaged by teeth grinding or trauma. A nightguard may be recommended.
  • Candidacy: Your tooth and gums must be healthy. We need to address any decay or gum disease before proceeding with veneers.

Is a Veneer the Right Fix for You?

Veneers are ideal for people with healthy teeth who want to correct cosmetic issues like a moderate chip. If the chip is very small, dental bonding might be a simpler and more affordable alternative. If the tooth has extensive damage or a large filling, a dental crown that covers the entire tooth may be a better option to restore its strength and function.

The best way to know for sure is to have a professional evaluation. Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin will carefully assess your specific situation and explain all your options.

Let’s Restore Your Smile in Spokane

Don’t let a chipped tooth hold you back any longer. Contact Chaffin Dental Care today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you determine if a dental veneer is the perfect way to bring back your complete, confident smile.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Straighten Your Smile and Boost Your Oral Health with Invisalign

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A straight, confident smile is a powerful asset, but did you know it’s also a key component of your overall oral health? At Chaffin Dental Care, we help patients in Spokane achieve beautifully aligned smiles with Invisalign. This innovative treatment uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently shift your teeth into their ideal positions. The aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and removable, making them a popular choice for adults and anyone seeking a discreet orthodontic solution.

The Invisalign Journey at Chaffin Dental Care

Your path to a healthier, straighter smile is a streamlined and personalized experience with Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin. We guide you through every step of the process.

  1. Consultation: It all begins with a conversation. We’ll discuss your smile goals, examine your teeth, and determine if Invisalign is the right fit for you.
  2. Digital Scan & 3D Plan: Forget messy impressions. We use an advanced digital scanner to create a precise 3D model of your teeth. With this model, we map out your entire treatment plan, showing you how your teeth will move and what your final smile will look like.
  3. Custom Aligners: Your unique 3D plan is used to fabricate a series of custom aligners. Each aligner is made from smooth, comfortable plastic designed to fit snugly over your teeth.
  4. Wear & Progress: You’ll wear each set of aligners for 20–22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Approximately every one to two weeks, you’ll switch to the next set in the series. We’ll schedule periodic check-ins to monitor your progress and ensure everything is on track.
  5. Retention: Once your treatment is complete, we’ll provide custom Vivera® retainers. These high-quality retainers are essential for maintaining your new smile for years to come.

More Than Just a Pretty Smile: The Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign does more than just enhance your appearance; it significantly improves your oral health.

  • Easier Cleaning: Properly aligned teeth have fewer gaps and crowded spaces where plaque and bacteria can hide. This makes brushing and flossing more effective, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Improved Bite & Function: A corrected bite distributes chewing forces evenly, which can alleviate issues related to TMJ discomfort and prevent abnormal wear and tear on your enamel.
  • Healthier Gums: Crowded or widely spaced teeth can lead to red, swollen gums. Straightening your teeth helps your gums fit more securely around each tooth, creating a stronger defense against potential periodontal problems.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

Invisalign is an excellent option for many patients, especially adults who value discretion and comfort. The smooth, custom-fit aligners won’t irritate your cheeks or gums like traditional braces sometimes can. Because they are removable, you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods and maintain your oral hygiene routine with ease.

If you’re ready to explore how you can achieve a straighter, healthier smile, we’re here to help. Contact Chaffin Dental Care today to schedule your Invisalign consultation with our team in Spokane, WA.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Signs You Might Need a Tooth Pulled in Spokane

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closeup of a young man having a tooth pulled

Losing an adult tooth is something we all hope to avoid. However, sometimes a tooth extraction is the best step to protect your overall oral health. At Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA, Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin provide compassionate care, helping you understand when removing a tooth is necessary. Recognizing the warning signs can help you seek timely treatment and prevent further complications.

closeup of a young man having a tooth pulled

Here are some major indicators that you might need a tooth extraction.

Severe, Lingering Tooth Pain

A persistent, throbbing toothache that doesn’t go away is a significant red flag. While many things can cause tooth pain, intense discomfort can signal a deep infection or severe decay that has reached the tooth’s nerve. If a root canal isn’t enough to save the tooth, extraction may be the only way to find relief and stop the infection from spreading.

Signs of a Serious Infection

An abscess, or a pocket of pus, can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums beside it. This is a serious infection that can cause fever, facial swelling, a foul taste in your mouth, and swollen glands. An infected tooth that cannot be saved with treatment must be removed to prevent the infection from spreading to your jawbone and other parts of your body.

Overcrowding in Your Mouth

Sometimes, there simply isn’t enough room in your jaw for all your teeth to fit properly. This is known as overcrowding. It can prevent teeth from erupting correctly or push them out of alignment. An extraction might be recommended to create the space needed for orthodontic treatment, allowing your other teeth to move into their proper positions.

A Severely Damaged Tooth

A tooth that has suffered extensive damage from an injury or has a large crack that extends below the gum line often cannot be repaired. While crowns and fillings can fix minor to moderate damage, a severely compromised tooth may be too weak to save. In these cases, extracting the tooth and replacing it with a bridge or dental implant is often the most stable, long-term solution.

The Deal with Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the most commonly extracted teeth. They are the last to erupt, usually in the late teens or early twenties, and many people’s jaws are too small to accommodate them. This can lead to them becoming impacted—trapped beneath the gums—or growing in at an awkward angle. This can cause pain, damage to adjacent teeth, and infections.

At Chaffin Dental Care, Drs. Chris and Topher Chaffin are your trusted resource for gentle wisdom teeth removal in Spokane, WA. They carefully evaluate your situation and use modern techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Chaffin Dental Care today to schedule a consultation with our experienced and caring team.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Your Smile’s Best Friend: Proactive Dental Care in Spokane

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young woman sitting relaxed in a dental chair, routine dental appointment

A sudden toothache can disrupt your entire day. It’s a sharp reminder of how much we rely on our oral health. While it’s tempting to wait and see if the pain subsides, this often leads to more complex and costly problems. At Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA, we believe in a proactive approach. Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile and prevent issues before they start.

Don’t Ignore the Signals: What Tooth Pain Tells You

Tooth pain isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s your body’s alarm system. It can signal various issues, from a simple cavity to more serious concerns like an infection or gum disease. Ignoring these warnings can allow minor problems to escalate, potentially requiring extensive treatments like root canals or extractions. Addressing pain promptly at our Spokane office ensures we can identify the cause early and provide the most effective, least invasive solution.

Save Time, Money, and Stress with Proactive Care

Many people view dental visits as a reaction to a problem, but proactive care is a smart investment in your overall well-being. Regular check-ups and cleanings with the Chaffin Dental Care team do more than just polish your teeth. They allow us to catch potential issues like tooth decay, gum inflammation, and even signs of oral cancer in their earliest stages.

This preventative strategy saves you significant time you might otherwise spend in the dental chair for complex procedures. It also protects your wallet from the higher costs associated with emergency dental work. Most importantly, it saves you the stress and discomfort that come with dental emergencies. Knowing your smile is healthy and well-cared-for provides invaluable peace of mind.

Your Partners for a Lifelong Healthy Smile

Achieving a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come is a team effort. Your daily hygiene routine—brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet—is the foundation. This is powerfully complemented by professional dental services.

At Chaffin Dental Care, Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin combine their expertise with modern technology to provide personalized care for your entire family. From routine cleanings to cosmetic and restorative treatments, we are your partners in oral health. Together, we can ensure your smile stays bright and healthy for a lifetime.

Don’t wait for pain to dictate your dental health. Take a proactive step and schedule your visit with Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, WA, today.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

Dental Implants: The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacement in Spokane

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older man smiling in mirror, happy with new dental implants

Missing teeth affect more than just your smile. They impact your ability to eat, speak clearly, and feel confident in social situations. At Chaffin Dental Care in Spokane, Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin help patients restore their oral health and quality of life through dental implants—widely recognized as the gold standard for tooth replacement.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Missing Teeth

When you lose a tooth, the consequences extend far beyond the visible gap. Your jawbone begins to deteriorate without the root to stimulate it, leading to a sunken facial appearance over time. Adjacent teeth start shifting into the empty space, creating alignment issues that can affect your bite and increase your risk of gum disease.

Missing teeth also force you to chew differently, putting extra stress on remaining teeth and potentially causing them to wear down prematurely. Many patients find themselves avoiding certain foods, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and digestive problems.

What Makes Dental Implants Superior

Dental implants stand apart from other tooth replacement options because they replace both the tooth and its root. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for a custom crown that looks and functions just like your natural teeth.

Unlike bridges or dentures, implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support. This preserves the integrity of your healthy teeth while providing unmatched stability. You can eat all your favorite foods without worry, speak with confidence, and smile without feeling self-conscious.

The Chaffin Dental Care Advantage

Dr. Chris Chaffin and Dr. Topher Chaffin bring decades of combined experience to implant dentistry in Spokane. Their expertise ensures precise placement and optimal results for each patient. The practice uses advanced technology, including 3D imaging and computer-guided surgery, to plan your treatment with remarkable accuracy.

The Chaffins understand that every patient’s situation is unique. They take time to evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people with one or more missing teeth can benefit from dental implants. Ideal candidates have:

  • Adequate bone density to support the implant
  • Healthy gums free from active disease
  • Good overall health that supports healing
  • Commitment to excellent oral hygiene

Even if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate due to bone loss, modern techniques like bone grafting can often make implants possible. The only way to know for sure is through a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Chris Chaffin or Dr. Topher Chaffin.

Affordable Excellence in Spokane

While dental implants require a higher initial investment than other options, they’re actually more cost-effective over time. Unlike bridges that need replacement every 10-15 years or dentures that require frequent adjustments, properly maintained implants can last a lifetime.

Chaffin Dental Care offers flexible financing options to make implant treatment accessible to more patients. They work with insurance companies to maximize your benefits and provide transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

Your Path to a Complete Smile

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from living your best life. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chris Chaffin or Dr. Topher Chaffin at Chaffin Dental Care to discover how dental implants can transform your smile and restore your confidence.

Chaffin Dental Care

605 E Holland Ave #214 Spokane, WA 99218

509-467-6128

COVID-19 Precautions

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Oh, how we have missed you! We hope this finds you and your family in good health. Our community and country has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed one thing has remained the same: our commitment to you and your safety!

 

Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice and you may have seen this before, during your visits to our office. Our infection control processes are made so that when you receive care, it’s both safe and comfortable. Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupations Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued. We do this to make sure that our infection control procedures are current and adhere to each agencies’ recommendations.

 

You may see some changes at your next appointment. We’ve made these changes to help protect you. For example:

  • Our office will communicate with you beforehand, to ask some screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again when you arrive.
  • You will be offered hand sanitizer as you enter and leave the office. It will also be displayed throughout the office, for your use.
  • Your temperature will be recorded in your health care record, when you arrive.
  • You may see that there will no longer be magazines, children’s toys and so forth, in our waiting room. These items are difficult to clean and disinfect.
  • Appointments will be scheduled to minimize congestion. This means that we may need to modify your appointment time.
  • Our waiting room capacity has been reduced.
  • If you have a face mask that you are wearing in public, we invite you to wear it to the office.

 

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty and look forward to welcoming you back — our patients, neighbors and friends. Thank you for your help!

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Chris Chaffin, DDS

Dr. Topher Chaffin, DDS

Coronavirus

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Does it feel like you’re living in a 4th graders story? — Spring time came and the world was warming up. There was a virus, it got people real sick. Stores ran out of toilet paper. Then the world shut down. And then it was Friday the 13th and it snowed.

 

On a more serious note,  thank you for taking the time to review this blog post about the emerging novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) and COVID-19 (coronavirus disease- 2019), and how to deal with it.

Here’s what we know about the spread of the coronavirus, from the CDC (link):

  1. There’s no vaccine. Prevention is the best way to not get sick.
  2. It spreads by person. You must either be within 6 feet of a cough/sneeze, or touch a surface that still has the active virus on it, then it has to get into your eyes, nose or mouth, then into the lungs.
  3. The novel coronavirus is very easy to kill. Soap and water is the best defense, next is hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
  4. The virus can last up to 2-3 days on a hard surface, but lasts only minutes in direct sunlight (UV rays). If you eat it, it won’t infect you.
  5. The virus is more contagious than the flu, but less than the measles, zika, or HIV.
  6. Social distancing and quarantining is essential. This means you should stay 6 feet away from other people, if possible. Only wear a mask if you are infected, or are healthy and caring for an infected person.
  7. A person will stay contagious for approximately 2 weeks, with 80% experiencing only a mild flu-like sickness.
  8. It is a concern because of the high chance of pneumonia in older or immune-compromised individuals. It is easily treatable, if there is medical help available. The potential high death toll will be due to the lack of available medical help, if there is a sudden surge of severe cases.

 

The CDC, OSHA, WISHA and the ADA guidelines, before 2019, and generally speaking, guidelines for dental offices are to treat each patient as if they already have a contagious disease. This includes cleaning dirty surfaces, and sterilizing all instruments after use, washing hands thoroughly, and wearing personal protective equipment appropriate for the task at hand.

We are happy to inform you that we have followed all of these guidelines for many years now, and as such, we have been in compliance with these standards in order to protect all of our team as well as patients even since even before the current Corona virus pandemic.

We encourage you to let us know if you have a fever, cough or possible exposure and we can reschedule for a future date.  However, in the event a patient by chance may happen to be a carrier but not have any symptoms yet, we are still continuing to protect,  disinfect and sterilize our environment and working surfaces so that all future patients continue to be safe.

 

 

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

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