You will see several changes to our office to ensure your safety. First, you will be contacted prior to your appointment via phone, text or email and asked a set of health-related questions. It is required that we complete this Wellness Questionnaire no less than 72 hours prior to your appointment. We will have to cancel your appointment if we are unable to complete this step as we may require time to follow-up with anyone exhibiting flu-like symptoms or has a risk factor for COVID-19. If you are concerned about your health, use this BC COVID-19 Assessment Tool.

Below is a list of some of the enhanced precautions we have taken to protect you in addition to extensive team training on infection control and patient management procedures.

1. Personalized arrival procedures to reduce wait times in the lobby – please text or call us when you arrive and wait outside until we are ready to complete your Arrival Screening.

2. Maintain distancing in the reception area for essential caregivers if they cannot wait in a vehicle or outside the clinic.

3. Removed magazines and items that can harbor or transfer germs of any kind.

4. Hand sanitizers are positioned throughout the clinic for your use.

5. Installed sneeze guards at all reception areas.

6. Require our patients to be performing hand sanitizing before and after all appointments.

7. Introduce an oral pre-rinse for all patients to reduce exposure to germs.

8. Daily monitoring of team members for signs and symptoms of illness.

9. Recording the temperature of every patient and team member upon entering the office.

10. Payment arrangements in advance to avoid delay and allow contactless exit from the appointment.

11. Enhanced operatory disinfection procedures with HOCl fogging.

12. Enhanced disinfection of “commonly touch items” such as computers, doorknobs, etc.

13. Our HVAC system was recently serviced and meets above expectations for air filtration.

14. New personal protection equipment like face shields and gowns to provide barriers against the smallest of germs.

15. Introduced protocols and new equipment to reduce or eliminate airborne aerosols during all dental procedures, including the Nu-Bird HV System for our dental hygienists.

16. Disinfection of all outside mail and packages that enter the building.

17. Providing tele-dentistry services for follow up lab reports or communication that can be done online or through video education.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we are taking to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice!

To find more information about COVID-19, how to protect yourself, your family and your community and what to do if you suspect you have the virus, visit the BC Center for Disease Control.

And further details regarding the guidelines for all Oral Health Care Providers in BC can be viewed at the College of Dental Surgeons of BC (CDSBC).

Nasal Decongestants

Decongestants help battle a runny nose by drying out the tissues, but overuse during cold and flu season can also cause dry mouth. This reduced saliva flow promotes bacteria growth in the mouth, ultimately increasing your risk of gingivitis and tooth decay.

To combat dry mouth, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Humidifiers are also crucial, especially in a dry climate like Kamloops. They add moisture to the air and help soothe dry tissues.

Sore Throats and Lozenges

Haven’t we all fallen asleep with a sore throat lozenge in our mouth during cold and flu season? They are designed to dissolve slowly, which I’ve found dulls the pain so I can sleep. However, watch out for lozenges with sugar as prolonged contact with the teeth will lead to cavities. Look for brands that are sugar-free or sweetened with xylitol. If you do use sugary products, make sure you brush your teeth often. Last thing you want is to finally get over being sick, only to visit your dentist and discover you need fillings.

Cough Syrup

Cough syrup is always a staple in my battle against cold and flu symptoms. However, these medicines often contain sugar to help mask the awful taste. These sticky liquids will leave a coating on your teeth that can cause tooth decay. Also, watch for medicines containing alcohol, which will reduce saliva flow and make it harder to clean the teeth.

When possible, try pills or gel-caps instead of liquids. Children often struggle with pills, so give them the medicine before a meal so that the increased saliva flow caused by eating will help wash away the sugar coating.

Hot Tea & Orange Juice

I drink tea religiously during any cold and flu to help soothe my throat. But be careful, tea is erosive and will soften the hard enamel layer, leaving you more prone to decay and tooth-wear.

My grandma always said enough Vitamin C would cure any cold. And it definitely helps boost the immune system during cold and flu season. However, citric fruits and beverages are acidic and will also soften enamel.

The best plan is to have these drinks during mealtimes and use a straw, reduce any sweeteners in your tea, and drink water throughout the day. Also, it’s important to brush thoroughly, but wait 30 minutes so that the enamel has a chance to harden again.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Although you might not feel up to it during cold and flu season, stick with your regular brushing and flossing routine. I guarantee you will recover faster and protect your teeth. And don’t forget to change your toothbrush once you’re feeling better as the viruses and bacteria may linger.

Our team at Horizon Dental would be happy to help you achieve optimal oral health and we are happily accepting new patients. If you’re looking for a dentist in Kamloops, we are happily accepting new patients! You can contact us by clicking here!

1. Start your spring cleaning by replacing your toothbrush!

The American Dental Association recommends you replace your toothbrush (or brush head, if you use an electric toothbrush) every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or if you’ve been ill. When was the last time you replaced YOUR toothbrush?

Since we’re on the topic of toothbrushes, here are a few additional spring cleaning tips:

• Never share your toothbrush.
• Store toothbrushes upright if possible so they can air-dry faster after use.
• Rinse your brush thoroughly with tap water after use.
• Invest in a UV sanitizer to extend the lifespan of your toothbrush if you get frequent colds or infections

2. Spring to that floss & try something new

Do you find it tough to remember to floss every day? You may just need to try a different type of dental floss! Consider these popular variations on traditional floss:

• Waxed floss: Waxed floss is a commonly used option and comes in a variety of flavors (cinnamon, mint, bubble gum – even surprising flavors, like bacon!).
• Dental tape: Dental tape is a thin “ribbon” of floss that slides between teeth easily. I especially love Crest Glide Pro-Health.
• Floss picks: Floss picks are a good option if it’s difficult or painful to open your mouth wide enough to use traditional flossing methods or if you’re on-the-go.

3. Spring into action and visit your favorite dentist and dental hygienist!

As you check things off your spring cleaning to-do list, don’t forget to make sure you have your family’s dental visits scheduled! Early morning and after-school appointments book up fast throughout the year, so we recommend booking ahead to ensure you get a time that’s convenient for each member of your family.

4. Don’t forget that spring cleaning your routine can get you that summer smile

Now’s the perfect time to talk about whitening options – click here for more information about our Spring Whitening Promo. A freshly whitened smile may be just what you need to feel ready for spring and summer!

Spring is a time for new beginnings

Now is the perfect time to get things back on track with a fresh toothbrush, new floss options, and a dental checkup and cleaning. These quick and easy steps can help you enjoy a healthy smile throughout the season!

I hope this post got you thinking. If you have any questions or comments I’d love to hear from you. If you like what you see, please share with your friends and follow me on Google +, Facebook, or Instagram!

And if you’re looking for a dentist in Kamloops, we are happily accepting new patients! You can contact us by clicking here!