Difficulties of dentistry amid COVID-19 include drop in revenue, increased costs

DELTA (NEWS 1130) – From increased costs to just getting protective equipment, it’s an incredibly difficult time for dentists.

Many are now calling for the government to ease some restrictions, like limiting dental procedures to emergencies only.

Such moves have been a major blow for dentists like Dr. Mahsa Soraya with Angel Care Dental in Delta, who are also, in many cases, having to pay a premium for some protective equipment.

While some clinics have opted to pass the cost down to patients, Soraya says her office is absorbing those costs — for now.

“I haven’t made that decision yet, I just have to see how much this extra cost is going to put a burden on the practice. I think at some point something has to give, but at this point we’ve decided not to charge and see if we can still make a go of it. But that may change in the near future,” she explains.

At first, Soraya says the struggle was to figure out what exactly the guidelines were. Once they were clarified, she says the issue became an influx of dentists trying to buy certain pieces of equipment. She tells NEWS 1130 she tried to order a special thermometer on Tuesday, but was told she wouldn’t receive it until July.

“A lot of suppliers will tell you they have a certain product, for example masks or gowns, and when you actually go to purchase it, they tell you that they’re on back order and you’ll be looking at getting them a month from now. So getting the right equipment and personal protection equipment for yourself and the patient have been the hardest part of all of this.”

In addition to having to pay more for equipment, Soraya says there’s been a big drop in the number of patients she can see, meaning revenue is way down.

“Dr. Bonnie Henry has been very vague. They’re taking it one week at a time or one month at a time, and at this point we have no idea when we can resume our full range of services,” she tells NEWS 1130.

Soraya insists dentists have the skills to ensure you’re safe in the seat.

Understanding a lot of people are scared, Soraya is reassuring patients her clinic is following new guidelines to ensure their safety.

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