Due to the characteristics of dental settings, the risk of cross infection can be high between patients and dental practitioners. For dental practices and hospitals in areas that are (potentially) affected with COVID-19, strict and effective infection control protocols are urgently needed.

Current observations suggest that people of all ages are generally susceptible to this new infectious disease. However, those who are in close contact with patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19, including health care workers and other patients in the hospital, are at higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Dental patients who cough, sneeze, or receive dental treatment including the use of a high-speed handpiece or ultrasonic instruments make their secretions, saliva, or blood aerosolize to the surroundings

As respiratory droplets are the main route of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, particulate respirators (e.g., N-95 masks authenticated by CDC) are recommended for routine dental practice.

All U.S. Dentists and staff demand authenticated N-95 masks to be available for purchase NOW!! If we are to help flatten the curve, this request is obligatory and should be mandated by Federal and State measures to ensure public health. Doctors, dentist, nurses and paramedics are the ONLY fighters at the frontlines of this war against COVID-19. How can you send us unprotected? We are scarce and needed and the U.S. cannot afford to allow a single healthcare provider to get sick or die!!