They suggest they are on the frontline when it comes to exposure risk, thanks to aerosol-generating procedures that can spread virus particles and increase the chances of exposure for dental teams should a patient have COVID-19.
The American Dental Association (ADA) wants health authorities to supply testing kits to dentists so they can swab patients before treatment begins.
The Labor Department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has identified dental professionals as at risk for exposure to the coronavirus due to various workplace hazards.
Manufacturers and distributors are prioritising the distribution of the available kits to facilities with high-level needs.
The ADA is advising dentists to steer clear of so-called ‘grey market’ point-of-care tests for COVID-19, recommending they follow the direction issued by the FDA regarding testing procedures in their practices.
Meanwhile, the British Dental Association reported this week that dentists in England are facing ‘critical shortages’ in personal protective equipment (PPE).
Over half (54%) of dentists in England say that PPE shortages are hampering efforts to treat patients at urgent dental care (UDC) hubs, according to a BDA survey.
Charlotte Waite is BDA chair and a senior community dentist.
In a blog on the BDA website (https://bit.ly/3aFxoEM), she writes: ‘We are all aware that there is a shortage of PPE. There is increasing evidence that supply isn't keeping up with demand. Promises from government are starting to ring hollow with reports that our level 3 PPE, which has only just been provided, are being taken back from UDCs and redistributed within the NHS.
‘I know we are down the pecking order when it comes to urgency and level of need, and I accept that. However, I can't help being deeply concerned for the safety of our teams and of our patients.
‘In times like this it feels inappropriate to throw the blame upon anyone. We are in a situation that no-one could have imagined or prepared for. All we ask is that a sensible and realistic approach is taken – one that is transparent and clear from NHS England, Public Health England and the government.
‘The guidance from NHS England makes it clear that aerosol-generating procedures (AGP) should be "avoided unless absolutely necessary”. It also states that "each patient should be assessed and managed on their own merit, taking into account the patient’s best interests... and the prioritisation of the most urgent care needs".'