Managing periodontics patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Nonsurgical periodontal therapy is usually completed with scaling, polishing, and root planing. These are usually associated with aerosol and splatter formation which is composed of saliva, blood, bacteria, and viruses. Studies have shown aerosol-generating procedures can contaminate the dental clinic atmosphere and transmit serious infection. Contamination of saliva with SARS-CoV-2 is a great concern in dentistry, particularly for periodontal practice. COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease and can be easily contracted during aerosol-generating procedures. This will, undoubtedly, have future impacts for periodontal practice in ensuring safe and effective treatment. Careful review of current equipment and practice in controlling cross-contamination can facilitate preparation of proper guidelines for future practice.