Visiting the dentist during COVID-19: Your questions answered

James Curtis, DMD

Dentistry

COVID-19 may have you questioning your every move, including whether or not you should go to your scheduled teeth cleaning or what you should do if you find yourself in an emergency dental situation. James Curtis, DMD, addressed these concerns and others.

Should you keep your scheduled routine teeth cleaning and/or scheduled dental procedure (e.g. cavity filling, crown)?

“Oral health is important to your overall health. Neglecting your teeth and mouth can lead to bigger problems. Delaying dental care may necessitate more extensive treatment, if oral disease is allowed to progress,” said Dr. Curtis.

What do you do if you need an emergency dental procedure?

If you are in need of emergency dental care, it is important to seek immediate care from your dentist.

What should you be doing at the dentist to protect yourself against COVID-19?

The Centers for Disease Control has published guidelines to help dentists provide safe care based on the current understanding of COVID-19.

When in the dental office be sure to:

• Follow the instructions of the dental team.
• When required, wear your mask in the dental office.
• Use hand sanitizer frequently.

What should my dentist be doing to protect against COVID-19?

Many of the extra steps being taken in dental offices because of COVID-19 are intended to protect you as well as the dentist, dental hygienists and dental assistants providing your care.

Dr. Curtis said to be sure your dental office is taking these precautions:

• Screening for symptoms of COVID-19.
• Taking your temperature upon arrival.
• Providing you with a face mask if you do not already have one.

“Dentists have always been at the forefront of infection prevention. Now more than ever, extra attention is being paid to disinfecting high touch surfaces and turning over treatment rooms to make sure you are safe,” said Dr. Curtis.