The effects of COVID-19 have impacted every aspect of our daily lives, including your future visits to our offices. Even though there has been an unprecedented change, Iowa Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons remains committed to your health and safety, as well as to that of our staff and community.

Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice, and you have seen this during your past visits. Our infection control protocols are always in effect so that when you receive care, it’s both safe and comfortable.

Our offices follow infection control recommendations made by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Iowa Board of Dentistry, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), and the American Dental Association (ADA). We follow the activities of these agencies and associations daily so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued. This is done to ensure that our infection control procedures are current and adhere to each agencies’ rules and best guidance. 

You will notice some changes or may even have a new experience when it’s time for your next appointment. These changes are to help protect you and our staff. For example: 

Scheduling your appointment

  • Appointments are managed to allow for physical distancing between patients. That might mean that you’re offered fewer options for scheduling an appointment.
  • More invasive procedures may be delayed depending on your age or certain medical conditions.

Your pre-appointment screening

  • This screening focuses on whether you’ve had any COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever, cough, or been in contact with anyone with COVID-19. This screening helps to determine if you can safely come to the office.

Day of your appointment

  • Expect questions that are similar to those from the pre-appointment screening on the day of your visit.
  • Your temperature will be taken before you enter the office. 

During your visit

  • Waiting rooms have fewer chairs and are spaced out to ensure proper physical distancing.
  • Waiting rooms no longer offer magazines, children’s toys, and so forth as those items are difficult to clean and disinfect.
  • Hand sanitizer is available in the waiting room and throughout the office.
  • We minimize the number of people in the office at any one time — so please leave family and friends at home or in the car that aren’t necessary for your actual visit.
  • Our entire staff will ensure that all infection control procedures are used during your appointment. Many of our staff, including the front desk staff, will be in face shields, gowns, and head coverings.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to ask your oral surgeon or one of the registered nurses.

After your visit

  • If you feel any COVID-19 symptoms or you have a COVID-19 diagnosis within 14 days of visiting the office, you must call and let us know.

Together, we are all part of the solution to keep you, our staff, and the community safe and healthy. We value your trust and loyalty and look forward to seeing you again.