The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life around the world. That doesn’t mean that life has ground to a halt. The Stiles Dental Team, our patients, and our community are still finding ways to communicate and stay connected — even while practicing social distancing to keep one another safe and well. 
How have operations at Stiles Dental Care changed during COVID-19?
As we learned more information about COVID-19, including best practices for staying safe, we made the decision to temporarily halt routine visits and non-essential treatments. We also limited office hours and practiced social distancing. We remained available for emergency dental services. We hope to start seeing patients on a regular basis soon. Check our website for updates.
How are people staying connected during social isolation?
Even if it is not safe to visit with people in person, or to go out to the places you used to frequent, there is no reason why you cannot stay connected — and engaged — with others during this time. Try one or all of the following approaches:
- Make phone calls. Check-in with friends and family on a regular basis to lift their spirits — and make sure they don’t need anything. Talking to loved ones can take a weight off your spirit.
- Use Skype. Skype is a free video calling service that is among the most popular in the world. This service gives you a convenient window into loved ones’ homes with the added bonus of being able to see one another while chatting.
- Meet virtually through Zoom. Many businesses use Zoom, which allows for multiple people to join in on the same video call. It is free to use, though there is a sliding scale with additional features for a fee.
- Connect with FaceTime. If you have an Apple product, you can connect with one or more people with FaceTime through your iPhone, iPad, or computer.
- Write emails. While email has become heavily utilized while on the job, don’t forget that you can still send friends and family updates, photos, recipes, and more through a thoughtful email.
- Send letters. You can brighten someone’s day by sending an old-fashioned letter. Tell a funny story, share a memory, or simply send a positive card through the postal service.
How can people stay positive during COVID-19?
Staying active, engaged, and optimistic is key for your mental health and happiness. Be sure to take care of that even as you practice social isolation to protect your physical health. Try these activities to stay positive during COVID-19:
- Take an online class. There are many low-cost and even free online courses that you can take. Depending on your interests, you can take a class in a subject you’ve always been curious about, or continue your studies in your area of focus in college. Keeping your mind active is an important factor for staying positive.
- Make time for family. It can be stressful to be at home all day, especially if you have young children. However, you have the opportunity to connect and spend time as a family like never before. Teach your children games you used to play when you were their age. Watch old home movies together. Try out a new recipe that everyone can help out with. Stay creative and make sure you involve all members of your family when picking your activity to keep everyone excited.
- Exercise. Try to take regular walks outdoors to lift your mood and stay healthy, especially if your neighborhood is walkable. If not, try jump rope, dancing, yoga, or another activity. Now is the perfect time to try out new exercises. You might just find one you like.
- Tackle DIY projects. If you are one of those individuals with extra time on your hands, there is no time like the present to complete projects you always wished you had time to do. Whether it’s cleaning out the garage, organizing a closet, or repainting a room, DIY projects can give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
- Reach out to neighbors. Though you should not be visiting anybody’s house, you can still check in with your neighbors if you keep a door or window between you — or the recommended six or more feet between you outdoors. Take a few minutes to chat with those who live near you while you’re outside doing yard work, taking a walk, washing the car, or other outdoor tasks.
These are uncertain times, but the most important thing to keep in mind is that even if you are physically apart from your friends, family, and others, we are all in this together. Nearly everyone in your community, city, county, state, country, and even the world are experiencing the same feelings of isolation and loneliness.
The team at Stiles Dental Care is still here for you, even during these challenging times. If you are in need of dental care, don’t put it off. If you don’t get your issues treated in a timely manner, your symptoms may worsen, or the problem may be exacerbated. Schedule your appointment conveniently online by visiting https://www.medfordsmiles.com/book-now/.
