The coronavirus pandemic continues to have widespread effects on patients and dental providers across the country. As part of its regularly updated collection of coronavirus resources, the American Dental Association (ADA) encourages the adoption of additional best practices for your dental office to observe to reduce the risk of patient-to-patient and patient-to-provider transmission of COVID-19.

If your office treats patients during this challenging time, the ADA recommends that you take the following steps in addition to the standard precautions already in place at your facility:

• Screening patients for travel and signs and symptoms of infection when they update their medical histories.
• Taking temperature readings as part of their routine assessment of patients before performing dental procedures.
• Making sure the personal protective equipment they use is appropriate for the procedures being performed.
• Using a rubber dam when appropriate to decrease possible exposure to infectious agents.
• Using high-speed evacuation for dental procedures producing an aerosol.
• Autoclaving handpieces after each patient.
• Having patients rinse with a 1% hydrogen peroxide solution before each appointment.
• Cleaning and disinfecting public areas frequently, including door handles, chairs and bathrooms.

The ADA has established a collection of frequently asked questions (FAQ) from their member dentists as a reliable resource for continuously updated information. To see the full list, visit the ADA's FAQ webpage. You will also find more information on the ADA Coronavirus Center for Dentists. We encourage you and your staff to consult the ADA resources frequently for up-to-date information valuable to your office.

As one of our valued network providers, MCNA is committed to ensuring that our operations continue to function at the same high levels as you have come to expect. Our operational teams, including all Claims, Utilization Management, and Provider Relations staff, are 100% dedicated to continuing to support your office during this challenging time. If you have any questions, please call our Provider Hotline at 1-855-776-6262 (8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Friday).