DCG COVID-19 Rapid Screening FAQ

What procedures require me to be tested?

• All aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs), which typically include the following:
  • • • Fillings
      • Crowns
      • Sealants
      • Cleanings using special instruments (like a Cavitron)

• Non-AGP procedures, such as examinations, radiology services, impressions, treatment planning do not require screening.
  
  

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Who will receive a rapid screen?

• All patients requiring aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs).

 

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Will this test hurt?

• No, the nasal swab is not sharp and it should not hurt. Sometimes the swab can feel slightly uncomfortable. If you feel pain, please stop the test and seek advice from a healthcare provider.
  
  

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What are the known and potential risks and benefits of this test?

Potential risks include:

• Possible discomfort during sample collection.
• Possible incorrect test results

 

Potential benefits include:

• The results, along with other information, can help your health care provider make informed  recommendations about your care.
• The results of this test may help limit the spread of COVID-19 to your family and others in your community.

 

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What if I get a positive screening result on the day of my appointment?

• You will be moved to a private consultation room where your results will be explained to you. Unfortunately, you will not be treated. Instead we ask that you see your healthcare provider, who will advise you on when you can resume dental treatment.

 

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What dental procedures will be provided to COVID-positive patients?

• COVID-19 positive patients who require urgent procedures to will be directed to AU Health.

 

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Can I provide proof of an external negative COVID-19 test when I come in? 

Yes. If you have tested negative for COVID-19 using a healthcare provider administered test within 48 hours before your appointment, you may bring those test results with you to avoid screening.

Patients who travel a great distance to the Dental College are encouraged to test within 48 hours (72 hours if appointment is on Monday or Tuesday) ahead of their appointments and bring the results of the healthcare provider administered test with them.

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Can I use a home COVID-19 test?

• Unfortunately, we are not accepting home test result at this time as documentation of negative COVID-19 results. However, positive test result for COVID-19 using a home testing kit can be used for appointment cancellation.

 

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What is the time frame to accept external test results?

• External test results must be received no more than 48 hours before your DCG appointment. As mentioned above, patients who travel a great distance to the Dental College are especially  encouraged to test within 48 hours (72 hours if appointment is on Monday or Tuesday) ahead of their appointments and bring the results of the healthcare provider administered test with them.

 

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What if I have appointments two days in a row?

• If you have dental appointments for subsequent days, you will not be required to test again within 48 hours of the first test as long as they remain asymptomatic.

 

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Is there are charge for the rapid COVID-19 screening?

• Yes. There will be a $13 charge for the Rapid COVID-19 Screening. This charge will be added to your overall billing invoice.
  
  
  

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Will insurance cover the cost of screening?

• At this time, insurance does not cover COVID-19 Rapid Screening procedure.
  
  

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Are there rapid screening instructions for patients?

• Yes. Written and video instructions are available.