CDC released new research suggesting that wearing two masks offers more protection against COVID-19. While the guidance may be effective in many public settings, dental settings have unique characteristics that warrant specific infection control considerations. 

After a slight decrease in patient volume in November and December, a recent survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute reveals a recovery for dental practices in the new year.

The California Supreme Court on Jan. 14 upheld its 2018 decision that employers’ use of the ABC test to classify their workers applies retroactively for the purposes of California wage orders.

A new law that expands the list of individuals who are required to report suspected child abuse and neglect could apply to certain dental practice employees. 

Practice owners will have the opportunity to take advantage of the newly extended Employee Retention Credit in 2021. The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 modifies and extends the ERC, allowing employers to claim a refundable tax credit against the employer share of Social Security tax.

As of Jan. 1, employers may voluntarily provide emergency paid sick leave or emergency paid FMLA leave under FFCRA. If an employer chooses to voluntarily offer leave, it must be used for the same purposes and subject to the same conditions as originally outlined in FFCRA.

CDA advises practice owners to remain vigilant with infection control protocols even after their staff has been vaccinated. A fully vaccinated staff in a dental office does not completely reduce the practice owner’s obligations to maintain workplace safety standards.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission last December issued guidance indicating that employers may encourage or possibly require COVID-19 vaccinations, but policies must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Sunstar Americas Inc. has expanded its voluntary nationwide recall on its prescription oral rinse. The FDA on Dec. 28, 2020, published an updated announcement expanding the expiration period from Dec. 31, 2020, to Sept. 30, 2022.