Coronavirus: Should You Go to the Dentist During COVID-19?

Coronavirus: Should You Go to the Dentist During COVID-19?

Coronavirus: Should You Go to the Dentist During COVID-19?

Unfortunately, if you have a scheduled teeth cleaning coming up, you are going to have to reschedule for later on this year. Recently, the American Dental Association (ADA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have asked all dental offices to pause on all checkups and nonessential surgeries and appointments — this is to help put a temporary stop to all non-urgent visits. And while regular checkups and cleanings are vital to your health and your mouth?s health, rescheduling your upcoming appointment is crucial to stopping the spread of COVID-19. 

Why You Can?t Go to the Dentist 

While there is still a lot that isn?t known about COVID-19, we do know that it is spread through respiratory droplets. These droplets are what fly through your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and are fairly easy to pass on to others nearby. Coupled with respiratory droplets, COVID-19 can also be spread through both mucus and saliva. During a typical dental checkup, your dentist comes in contact with all of these fluids fairly easily. 

What are Non-Urgent Treatments?

Essentially, if the dental work doesn?t affect your current health, it can be labeled as non-essential, or, non-urgent. Here are a few examples of what would classify as non-urgent:

  • Regular dental cleanings or checkups
  • X-rays 
  • Any cosmetic repairs
  • Teeth whitening 

When Should I go to the Dentist?

That isn?t to say you shouldn’t pay a visit to your dentist at all during this pandemic. According to the ADA, anything life threatening should be treated right away and warrants a visit. For example, you can still get treatment for:

  • Serious pain
  • Broken teeth if they are causing pain or tissue damage
  • Any trauma 
  • Persistent bleeding 
  • Signs of infection 

If you?re unsure of whether or not your symptoms warrant a visit, feel free to give our office a call beforehand. 

How Can I take Care of My Teeth at Home?

While it?s always important to take special care of your mouth and teeth, it is especially important now to prevent any unnecessary trips to the dentist, protecting both you and our staff. Visit our blog to learn some helpful tips to keep your smile well from flossing tips to mouth-healthy recipes.