On May 21, 2020 the CDC posted updates to its Guidance for Dental Settings: Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Dental Settings During the COVID-19 Response. 

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 both patients with COVID-19 and patients without COVID-19.

To view a more comprehensive summary of the updated guidance prepared by GDA staff, please click here. 

In addition to their updated guidance, the CDC hosted a Guidance for Dental Settings During COVID-19 Response webinar on Wednesday, June 3 where presenters provided an overview of the updated guidance for dental settings, including recommendations for resuming non-emergency dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Presenters also discussed strategies for dental healthcare facilities to optimize personal protective equipment (PPE).

Once again, please note that the CDC's updates serve as clinical guidance/recommendations and do not carry the weight of law like an Executive Order from the Governor. However, as with all such previous guidance, GDA member dentists should continue to exercise their best clinical judgment when providing their full scope of dental treatment, taking into account their individual circumstances and supply of PPE so as to ensure the safety of their patients and staff.