How To Greet Your Dentist While Maintaining Social Distancing

Social distancing is now a major part of your life. Because of COVID-19, you need to think about how you are going to keep a healthy amount of space between yourself and other people wherever you go. Your dentist in Castle Hills is making these same considerations as they resume their normal operations. In the past, they would have been glad to accept a friendly hug or a handshake from you when you walked through the doors of their practice. Now, they are going to ask that you refrain from doing so to reduce the spread of germs in their office. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t greet them at all, you’re just going to have to do it without touching them. If you need some ideas for new greetings you can use, read on!

1. Air High Five

Throw up your palm and push it forward to greet your dental team. Just be careful not to hit anyone when you do it!

2. Smile

You spend a lot of time and money to have a healthy smile, so show it off before you sit down in the dentist’s chair.

3. Bow

When was the last time you saw anyone take a bow in a dentist’s office? Probably never, so you can make a statement by being the first one to do it. This respectful gesture can be done multiple ways. For example, people in Japan bow by bending at the waist while keeping their hands at their sides. In Thailand, they place the palms of their hands against each other next to their chest while bowing. Give each method a try to find out which works best for you.

4. Wave

A quick shake of your hand will get your dental team’s attention. Most of the time, they’ll wave right back at you.

5. Jazz Hands

If you have a lot of energy before your appointment and want to let everyone know, slide into the office while shaking your hands at your side.

6. Nod

Sometimes, the simplest gestures work the best. When you make eye contact with a member of the team, nod your head to acknowledge their presence.

7. Peace Sign

With just two fingers, you can let everyone in the office know that you are coming in with good feelings in your heart. 

8. Vulcan Salute

If you know that someone in your local dental office is a big Star Trek fan, this is the perfect greeting for you to use. Raise your palm and part your fingers between your middle and ring fingers to pull it off.

This list is just a small sample of the no contact greetings people are using as they return to their old routines. Don’t be afraid to come up with your own and share it with your dentist at your next appointment.

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Noble went to dental school at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the San Antonio District Dental Society. At his practice, he provides both preventive and emergency care in a safe and welcoming environment. If you would like to schedule an appointment with him, you can do so through his website or at 210-342-1001.