Infection Control

Infection control in dental practice has always been a cornerstone of ensuring your practice is safe. This is the responsibility of the treating practitioner. Below are some general infection control resources as well as some additional measures to be mindful of during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

PPE and Stock

There's some confusion surrounding the requirements of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the precautions and whether you need to consider droplet or aerosol-based precautions will depend on the patients COVID-19 risk and the type of procedure being performed. Worldwide, PPE supply is diminished due to an unprecedented demand. It's important to be mindful of the PPE you require in the context of your practice and in the wider environment.

HR Support

HR Resources are available to ADA Members Only.

We understand that restrictions on the services you can provide will profoundly affect your cash-flow and the staffing requirements of your practice, and may result in the practice temporarily closing. It is a difficult and uncertain time for everybody and ensuring that the practice team are treated fairly and with respect is important and will aid in our efforts to return to business as the restriction levels lower. 

The ADA's HR Advisory Service is available to members and provides individual advice to guide you through any changes you need to make.

Practice Resources

In order to implement the newly established guidelines, practice policies should be developed so that staff and clinicians understand how to practically implement these changes. These policies look at how staff and clinicians can determine the COVID-19 risk of each patient, the other risk factors that should be considered and the ways to operate in a consistently safe manner. Each practice should also have an exposure response plan so that all team members know how to behave and react in the situation where there is a COVID-19 exposure. 

Financial Support

Changes to working arrangements will directly affect your finances. The ADA have included links below to a range of resources to help manage your finances for the weeks and months ahead. We also advise that you contact your accountant and financial adviser so that you can have direct advice during this time.  Additionally, the government is releasing different packages to support members of the community and we will update you as they become available.

Mental Health Support

The COVID-19 pandemic affects everybody and their ability to earn an income, have security and socialise. As a result, there are many members of our community who are struggling with their mental health. Below is a link to resources and advice that are available. The ADA understands that we are all part of a wider community and now more than ever it is important to reach out to your colleagues, check-in and stay connected.