Are you a hugger? Or do you prefer to greet your emergency dentist in Jacksonville, FL with a firm and friendly handshake? In either case, you may be missing these activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Indeed, while they are wonderful under normal circumstances, they are not currently wise practices. Fortunately, there are some creative and safe alternative greetings that you can use when you are saying hello to your dental team (or anybody else).
Elbow Bumps
Your elbows do not come into contact with a lot of surfaces, and you are unlikely to become ill from any germs that might be hitching a ride on them. Therefore, bumping elbows in order to greet someone is a fairly safe practice. In fact, elbow bumps were one of the primary greetings that were used in Liberia during an Ebola outbreak.
Sign Language
Literally hugging your dental team right now is inadvisable, but you can give them a different type of hug — a sign language hug! Just curl both of your hands into fists, then cross your arms over your chest. This easy, simple gesture communicates the warmth and affection of a real hug without the risks of physical contact.
Waving
A warm and enthusiastic wave has always been a great way to greet someone from a distance, whether you are saying hello to your neighbor or sending a greeting when you drive past your friend’s house. This simple gesture is also a great way to greet people in your dentist’s office.
Do you want to make your waving a bit more exciting? Try jazz hands, a movement that is traditionally used in dancing. Raise both of your hands with the palms facing outward, then move them back and forth.
Bows and Curtsies
Bowing might seem old fashioned, but it is a tradition that has survived into modern times in many cultures. For example, the Japanese are still known to bow when they want to convey a great deal of respect while greeting someone.
Curtsying is a traditionally female greeting that is carried out by placing one foot in front of the other and bending slightly at the knees. A curtsy might feel odd if you perform one in your dentist’s office, but it could be the perfect way to add some a bit of humor to your appointment.
Long Live and Prosper
If you have ever watched Star Trek, you may be familiar with the way members of the Vulcan race sometimes say hello or goodbye. It’s a fun way to greet your dental team! Raise one of your hands with the palm facing outward, and make a V shape by separating your index finger and middle finger from your pinky finger and ring finger.
Most of above-listed greetings will work well whether you are visiting your dentist in-person or attending a remote video consultation. These creative ways to say hello could brighten both their day and yours!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Carlson is a general and emergency dentist in Jacksonville, FL with more than 35 years of experience in his field. He earned his dental degree from University of Florida College of Dentistry, after which he completed a rigorous hospital-based residency. He and the entire team at Carlson Advanced Dentistry and Facial Esthetics are ready to serve you even during this time of COVID-19. To learn more about us and the safety protocols we have in place to keep you safe, contact us at 904-262-8409.