What You Should Know About Accessing Dental Health Services During COVID-19

According to the World Health Organization, 3.5 billion people are affected by oral health issues.

Consider certain factors before looking for dental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This guide will discuss what you should know. Keep reading to learn more. 

Safety Precautions Dental Offices Are Taking

Dental health services providers are doing what they can to keep patients and staff safe. Besides basic hand washing, certain disposable tools are being used to prevent the spread of infection. 

Dental offices are also disinfecting high-touch surfaces and dental tools more often. They’re covering and cleaning tools between uses to ensure the safety of patients’ health too. They’re wearing more protective gear as well. 

Besides requiring face masks in offices, the dental staff is also spacing out waiting rooms to allow for social distancing. Some offices are asking you to wait outside until it’s time for your appointment too. 

Things to Consider Before Making an Appointment 

Before making an appointment with children’s dental services or any other dental office, there are a few things you should know. 

Since the COVID-19 virus does spread through respiratory droplets, a dental office poses a threat for infection. The tools your dentist uses can spread the virus when they come in contact with your mouth, even with cleaning. 

Dental offices don’t have isolated rooms to treat one patient at a time. This is something you’ll need to think about before deciding if you want to come in for dental work. 

Non-Emergency Services

Certain non-emergency dental services don’t directly affect your health. These elective procedures can be put off for a later date if you’re worried about contracting the virus. 

Procedures like routine teeth cleanings, teeth whitenings, and minor cosmetic issues can be put off for some time to prioritize your health. 

Emergency Treatment You Might Need

Emergency dental services should be sought in certain situations, however. If you have a life-threatening situation concerning your teeth, have intense pain, or have a dental issue that will likely lead to infection, this should be treated right away. 

You can always call your dental office or find a dentist at https://thedentalteam.ca/ to ask about your specific situation and whether or not it’s considered a dental emergency. Some other symptoms indicating you need emergency dental care include nonstop bleeding, swelling around your mouth, broken teeth, or a lost crown. 

Oral Hygiene Tips to Follow 

If you want to avoid needing emergency dental services during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are a few tips you can follow to keep a healthy smile. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss at night. 

Drink more water to help wash out some bacteria in your mouth. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables and avoid sugary foods too. 

Your Guide to Accessing Dental Health Services Today

If you want to know how to navigate dental health services during this pandemic, this guide can help you. Learn about the safety precautions dental offices are taking and know whether or not you have a dental emergency. 

Check out some of the other health blogs on our site if you found helpful tips in this one.