Do I reschedule DD's orthodontist appointment?

[IHeartKingThistle]

DD (14) has a brace tightening appointment this week. It's not been cancelled.

Not sure whether I should cancel or take her. They are very cautious there and have loads of precautions but with the new variant I can't help thinking better to reschedule.

Argh. Am I over thinking?

I would take her. The last time I took DD2, we had to phone reception from outside, then wait until it was her turn. They unlocked the door, went through a Covid questionnaire, and took her temperature. Only then were we allowed in.

Once in, we had to remove any loose items (coat, handbag, phones, etc) and put them in a crate, before going through to the consultation room.

We've been going to the orthodontist all through the year. They are very careful and we have felt very safe. It could delay the treatment if you don't go.

I would take her. Orthodontist is probably safer than pretty much anywhere else. Plus, if you cancel this appointment, when will she be able to go next? DD missed orthodontist appointments during the first lockdown (when they were closed) and it effectively added about 3 months on to the time she had to wear her braces.

It's very safe, as above. She'll go in alone, probably. And if you don't keep this appointment DDs retainer / wire will probably break at some point soon and you'll have to go in anyway. This crisis won't be sorted in the next six weeks and if she doesn't have it tightened her treatment will stall and she'll need appointments for even longer.

Take her. She will not be anywhere near anyone else who isn’t in full ppe.

At my dentist you ring the bell, they take your temp and then you sit in reception with others, though spaced out.

I was kept waiting both to go in and wait for notes (I've been twice lately). A 10 min appt did become an hour with the wait, which is frustrating in current times.

However, I wouldn't delay. When dentists were shut I realised how important they are. It's hard to get appointments, so I would go.

Well that's pretty conclusive! Thanks all

I would take her. I’m taking my DS for a tooth out later this month, they have confirmed that it’s still on.

Dentists/orthodontists have very robust measures in place now, including enhanced PPE, Perspex screens, anti viral deep cleaning between patients, increased I dust risk strength ventilation systems, reduced footfall, and secure Covid screening. They are very safe environments at present. Indeed there have been no cases anywhere in the world of covid spread from
Clinical dentistry ( including countries that haven't taken such serious cross infection measures)
Plus it will hold her treatment back further leading potentially to other issues