smile blog

This summer on our Smile Blog, we heard from our team members what it was like to head back into the clinic with our new smileSAFE health-and-safety protocols in place. Today, we'll hear from our patients!

Following the unexpected closures of our clinics (and the rest of the world!) through the spring, we made some major changes within our practices. Our primary concern has always been the well-being of our patients, team members and local communities; so, when it comes to infection prevention and control, we take our role as healthcare providers incredibly seriously.

With added screening procedures, PPE, physical distancing, and various other measures in place — not to mention some challenging scheduling limitations as a result — our smileSAFE framework represents several changes to the way our patients experience their regular orthodontic appointments. But, despite having to adjust to a “new normal,” our patients and their family members have been wonderfully understanding — and they often share with us their appreciation for these added measures.

From Amy, a patient at docbraces Ottawa:
“I’ve been back to docbraces since they re-opened for an Invisalign check-up. The team helped me feel informed and at ease, from booking right through to my appointment. Their extensive safety protocols were clearly explained in my booking confirmation, so when I arrived, I knew exactly what to expect. Their screening, sanitation, directional signage, and distancing protocols were thorough and easy to understand. I was really impressed!”

From Russ, a patient at docbraces Edmonton:
"With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the clinic now needs to do some enhanced screening and disease prevention measures. Despite these, I still felt welcomed and comfortable in the clinic."

From Maddy, parent of a patient at docbraces-Hatheway Fredericton:
"My daughter recently got braces before COVID-19 and the service has been truly so easy. Receptionists are very friendly and provide you with clear instructions of the new procedures. Process so far has been great and no doubt it will continue to be!"

Once again, we are truly all in this together. Thank you to all of our patients for helping us ensure that these important protocols are closely followed at every appointment. We’re so happy to be back and safely doing what we love to do: bringing smiles to our patients across the country.

Dr. Bob Hatheway
Chief Clinical Officer