The effects of COVID-19 on Dentistry

[t-bear52]

I think I’m in the f*ck it camp. I too practice in Illinois. If governor extends into June, I’m done.
Insurance is paying less and less while overheads skyrocket. Dentistry is no longer fun nor profitable. Taking my PP and going home!

[stuper1]

Pugchief,

Good on you for continuing to pay your staff. That's very commendable.

Just out of curiosity, because I don't really know much about this stuff, wouldn't they make more money if you laid them off so they could get the expanded unemployment benefits? Or is it because those benefits only last a certain amount of time, and you want to preserve their ability to get those benefits for that full time period if you decide to close your shop and retire?

Not any of my business of course. Just curious.

[I Shrugged]

There’s a reason it’s called f*ck you money!

Anyway Chief, I hope it turns around soon.

[jhogue]

MangoMan,

Devastating. This is how small business get destroyed in contemporary America.

[dualstow]

... There is no revenue being generated, but I continue to pay my staff. The utility companies, liability insurance companies and the county tax board and/or landlord still want their full payments. P
...
We are at high risk bc most everything we do creates an aerosol which could* spread the virus.
...
We will also likely need to wear more PPE, which of course the insurance companies will not want to pay for so it will just increase my overhead into an already reduced revenue stream.
...
Then came PPOs and HMOs which reduced revenue and increased paperwork. Then more and more government regulations, compliance, restrictions, etc, which all reduced efficiency and increased overhead.
...
I don't need the income and I have my son to take over the practice, so I'm not sure if or when I will ever return. Sad.

Sad indeed. Thank you for laying out the details, Pugchief.

[jhogue]

Pugchief,

I will be going for my first post-COVID-19 dental cleaning this afternoon. Any last minute recommendations?

I will provide an update on any and all observed changes. It should be interesting, especially given all the recent-- and sometimes contradictory-- discussions we have had on this forum about wearing masks, etc.

[yankees60]

Pugchief,

I will be going for my first post-COVID-19 dental cleaning this afternoon. Any last minute recommendations?

I will provide an update on any and all observed changes. It should be interesting, especially given all the recent-- and sometimes contradictory-- discussions we have had on this forum about wearing masks, etc.

This is what I received from my dentist's office yesterday.

Vinny

Dear Vincent,

We're happy to announce that Dr. Kellogg, DDS has reopened and we are currently scheduling appointments, at limited capacity. We are taking every precaution recommended, and will be adhering to strict social distancing and COVID protocols.
We would like to thank you for your support and patience during this difficult time.

Please note that as a result of COVID-19, we have updated some of our daily procedures. We have always meticulously followed strict infection control protocols, but you may notice a few changes related to COVID-19. Don't worry, you will still receive the same great service from our dedicated team. However, to ensure the safety of all our patients we have implemented the following changes:

-Please call our office at 413-538-7546 when you arrive for your appointment. We are eliminating our "waiting room" during this time. Once you call, we will advise you when your private treatment room is ready.

-Your temperature will be taken prior to treatment. You will also be asked a few questions prior to the start of any treatment. We are doing this for your safety, the safety of other patients, and the safety of our staff.

-Please do not bring anyone to accompany you during treatment, unless it is medically necessary. We are limiting the amount of traffic in and out of the office.

-We are not accepting walk-in appointments or walk-in scheduling at this time. Please call the office at 413-538-7546 to schedule. We are only allowing patients with appointments into the office at this time.

Again, thank you so much for your support. We're happy to continue serving you, and can't wait to see your smile!

Sincerely,

Your friends at Dr. Kellogg's Office

[Maddy]

I think I would have been tempted to respond, "Dr. Kellogg, how were your grades in dental school?"

[whatchamacallit]

I went in for cleaning this week.

I only had contact with heavily garbed hygienist. The dentist didn't even check on me.

I never really paid too much attention at the dentist so it really didn't feel any different for me once in the chair. I always just close my eyes from the light shining and try to relax as much as I can.


On a side note, I am sure I used to hate going to the dentist as a kid. At some point it started to feel more like a break from work. Anyone else get to that point or does that mean I need new career?

[Libertarian666]

I went in for cleaning this week.

I only had contact with heavily garbed hygienist. The dentist didn't even check on me.

I never really paid too much attention at the dentist so it really didn't feel any different for me once in the chair. I always just close my eyes from the light shining and try to relax as much as I can.


On a side note, I am sure I used to hate going to the dentist as a kid. At some point it started to feel more like a break from work. Anyone else get to that point or does that mean I need new career?

You definitely need a new career!