The reimplementation of mask mandates in healthcare settings could affect dental practices.
Systems in Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, California, and Washington, D.C., are putting mask mandates in place as cases of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus rise, according to a Jan. 11 news release from the American Dental Association.
The ADA is encouraging all dentists to be aware of both state and local masking guidelines.
Even if there is not a masking requirement — as there is in certain settings in New York City and Los Angeles County — dentists and dental practices can push for staff and patients to use a mask based on area risk levels.
Currently, the CDC's recommendation for masking is based on local COVID-19 hospital admission levels, the release said.