We’ve all had to adapt to a lot of changes in 2020, with masks being one of our daily life adjustments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend everyone continue to wear masks to help lower the risk of spreading COVID-19, which has been found to be transmitted mainly through respiratory droplets from simply talking, coughing, sneezing, or even breathing. The use of masks is particularly important as COVID-19 can be spread from individuals who are not experiencing any symptoms but who are unknowingly infected with the virus. According to the CDC, not only do masks help prevent you from releasing respiratory droplets, but they also help reduce the risk of you inhaling these droplets.The CDC reports that multi-layer cloth masks effectively block the exhalation of most large droplets (i.e., 20-30 microns and larger) in addition to up to 50-70% of aerosols smaller than 10 microns that are common when individuals speak.
Several studies have shown the benefits of communities universally wearing masks in helping to lower the spread of COVID-19, plus lowering the amount of mortality rates from the virus. As reported by the CDC, an economic analysis based on United States data revealed that increasing universal use of masks by 15% could prevent the need for lockdowns and lower associated losses of up to $1 trillion (approx. 5%) of gross domestic product. More research is actively being conducted to further explore the benefits of masks and determine filtering effectiveness for instance. The CDC states that they will update their recommendations as new scientific evidence becomes available.
According to the CDC, individuals aged two years and older should wear masks in public and when around people who don’t live in their household. In addition, individuals also should practice social distancing while wearing masks. In certain circumstances individuals should not wear a mask, including people who are younger than two years old, those with trouble breathing, and those who may have sensory, cognitive, or behavioral conditions for instance.
Be sure to wear your mask, for your safety and the safety of others! To follow social distancing guidelines and ensure safety, our office at WDG requires everyone entering the office to wear a mask. In addition, you can learn more about the increased safety and our latest equipment additions on our blog post: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/05/whats-new-at-wdg-covid-19-safety-precautions
But, not all masks are created equally! Check out the types of masks that recommended vs. not recommended according to the CDC:
The CDC does not recommend using masks with exhalation valves/vents as respiratory droplets may exit the vents and contribute to the spread of COVID-19. Further research on these masks are ongoing.
The CDC also states that face shields or goggles should NOT substitute for masks and should not be placed on newborns or infants.
Experiencing skin trouble from wearing a mask? Take a look at these skin care recommendations on our blog: https://www.wellesleydentalgroup.com/blog/2020/07/the-latest-science-on-masks-plus-skincare-tips
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html