We’re Here When You Need Us

General News

March 20, 2020

Pacific Smiles is committed to caring for the health and well-being of our patients, dentists and employees in all our local communities. We are indebted to the wider healthcare community working tirelessly to contain COVID-19.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

Our centres remain open to provide essential treatment to support you and your family’s oral health. Improving the oral health of all Australians to world’s best is our true propose and we remain focused on your health and safety.

During this challenging period if you are unable to attend your regular dental check-up here are some key tips to take care of your oral health.

Regular Brushing and Flossing
Brushing your teeth for two minutes morning and night will reduce plaque build-up causing cavities. The World Dental Federation recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth.[1] Brushing too soon after having acidic foods or drinks can remove enamel on your teeth that’s been already weakened by acid.

Don’t snack all day
Continual snacking, especially on treats, will feed the decay causing bacteria, exposing your teeth to acid the germs produce. If you eat frequent meals or snack a lot during the day, your saliva cannot reach a natural balance threatening enamel health. If you do like to have an occasional treat, the best time to eat chocolate or similar sugary treats is with a main meal, limiting the opportunity for acid producing bacteria to flourish.

Drink tap water and rinse after eating
A dry mouth allows plaque bacteria to be retained in the mouth. Regular rinsing and drinking tap water keeps the mouth hydrated limiting the amount of bacteria in the mouth.

Encouraging the kids
To help motivate the kids we’ve put together a brushing chart for them to keep track of their daily dental care.

STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY

Our centres continue to uphold the highest clinical standards in line with our stringent and accredited (QIP) infection prevention and control and recommendations provided by The Australian Dental Association. We have introduced additional measures at this time.

Signs of illness

• Patients are being asked to report and not attend Pacific Smiles or nib Dental Centres if they have any of the following symptoms;
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Shortness of breath
• Group staff requests this information at several stages including appointment confirmation, online booking and at reception check-in
• Pacific Smiles currently monitors the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website and subsequently updates advice for patients, dentists and employees
• Any member of the Group (dentists and employees) are required to be quarantined on return from all international travel and must be asymptomatic for at least 14 days before returning to work

We have implemented additional protocols:

• Frequently touched surfaces including our waiting areas, reception desk and door handles are being thoroughly disinfected multiple times a day
• We have removed any toys, magazines and other unnecessary items from our waiting rooms
• Social distancing within our waiting and reception areas has been introduced and hand sanitiser is available to all patients upon arrival

When you visit Pacific Smiles, you can have peace of mind knowing that significant health precautions are being taken to ensure your safety.

Take care,

Phil McKenzie

Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director

For further information, please contact Ciara Rocks, Chief Marketing Officer on 0499 875 570.