CDC Updated COVID-19 Guidelines for Dentistry – Infection Control

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated the Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Dental Settings During the COVID-19 Response. The updated guidelines provide practical information on resuming regular, non-emergency dental care.

Summary of Recent Changes:

• Recommendations are provided for resuming non-emergency dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• New information is included regarding facility and equipment considerations, sterilization and disinfection, and considerations for the use of test-based strategies to inform patient care.
• Expanded recommendations for provision of dental care to patients without COVID-19.

Additionally, the guidance document states that dental offices should conduct periodic assessments of local community transmission levels in determining the controls which must be implemented for safety. According to the updated guidance, offices “could consider using a tiered approach to universal PPE based on the level of transmission in the community”.

Since 1992, OSHA Review, Inc. has provided dental professionals with comprehensive programs to support regulatory compliance and infection control. We are a registered continuing education provider in the state of California, specializing in Dental Practice Act, infection control, and OSHA training.