How to Say “Hello” Without Making Contact with Your Dental Team

Are you a hugger? Do you find it difficult to not shake hands or give a high-five when you see someone after months of being away? This natural reflex or reaction is something you cannot help; however, due to recent circumstances around COVID-19 and how easy it is to spread from person-to-person, you must refrain and look for alternative, contactless ways to say hello. How can this be achieved in a dentist’s office? A family dentist in Weyauwega, WI, explains how it is possible to maintain social distancing while continuing to receive a high level of quality dental care.

What is Wrong with Hugging or High-Fives?

While it’s no secret our hands carry germs and spread it to all types of surfaces throughout the day, researchers have found that bacteria can live on clothes for longer than we originally thought. As a result, social distancing must be maintained while COVID-19 remains a threat.

When arriving at your dentist’s office, it may feel like second nature to shake hands, high five, or hug the front desk person or your holistic dentist. Unfortunately, for now, measures are being taken to ensure patients and staff avoid any form of contact aside from the treatment you will receive when in the dentist’s chair.

Other Ways of Saying “Hello”

COVID-19 has brought about some unique and interesting ways to greet each other. While your dental team will continue to welcome you when you arrive, it will be from behind a mask, and as much as everyone wants to offer traditional greetings, you’ll need to consider one of the following methods instead:

• Teledentistry – Although it might seem impersonal, this new way of receiving dental care is allowing you to receive high-quality care without ever stepping inside a dentist’s office. It also enables you to speak directly with your dentist for continued personalized service.
• Elbow Bump – Instead of going with the traditional handshake, you can opt for an elbow bump. Not only will it cause a smile, but you’ll certainly get the point across that you’re happy to see them.
• Air High-Five – If your dentist in Weyauwega gives you a positive report (or not), the typical gesture might be a high-five; however, instead of following through to make contact, try out the air high-five instead!
• Namaste Stance – Whether you’re a yoga-guru or not, you’ve likely heard the word “Namaste” and witnessed the palms together, head bowed stance. This polite and peaceful way of saying “hello” is being adopted by many people throughout the world.

No matter how you choose to greet your dental team, know that they, too, are happy to see you. As much as we all would like for things to return to normal, this contactless adjustment will be staying in place for now.

About the Author
Dr. William Twohig is a holistic dentist in Weyauwega, WI, who has remained committed to helping patients achieve healthier smiles for more than 40 years. Although he is now available and seeing patients for all types of dental care, there are still certain guidelines that must be followed in order to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19, one of which is social distancing. While you may feel eager to hug or shake hands with Dr. Twohig and his dental team, it is necessary to opt for non-contact ways to greet everyone. If you want to know what other protocols are being put into place to maintain a healthy and safe environment, visit our website or call (920) 867-3101.