Dentists Seek New Normal for Reopening

May 4, 2020, 6:30 p.m. ·

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Starting today dentists across Nebraska are once again allowed to perform elective surgeries and other procedures.


Dr. Kathryn Alderman is CEO of Nebraska Family Dentistry. The practice has been working on infection control protocols, air cleaning, and having sufficient personal protective equipment on hand.

Alderman said dentists already use infection control to prevent the flu, pneumonia, and other diseases. They also have technology like air purifiers and negative pressure rooms to help clean air quickly.

Nebraska Family Dentistry ordered personal protective equipment early but still found it challenging to acquire enough PPE in time to reopen.

Alderman said they won’t be opening at full capacity yet.

“And the reasons for soft opening," Alderman said. "Is to allow chance to all the team members to get used to wearing more PPE and doing more steps for high infection control between patients.”

Alderman expects the practice won’t operate at full capacity until June.