Coronavirus(COVID-19) Disease Prevention and Emergency Dentistry

Health care professionals everywhere are mindful of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). This includes dentists. Dental professionals must watch out for their patients’ welfare during this challenging time. If you have an emergency procedure at your dentist’s office, you may worry about COVID-19. Your dentist will follow all American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines. Your dentist will also take appropriate steps to keep you healthy.

Issues that fall into the category of an emergency

Not all dental problems are emergencies. Some matters can wait until an upcoming appointment with the dentist weeks down the road. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) continues to spread around the world. Many patients may worry about whether they should still go to the dentist’s office. People who have severe toothache should make an appointment. Other conditions such as a broken or lost tooth are emergencies as well. Patients should continue to see the dentist for intense jaw pain.

Still open for business in some cases

Many U.S. states, counties and cities are closing nonessential businesses. In some places, even dentist’s offices fall into this category. The threat of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is real. Health officials do not want people out of their homes except for the most critical needs.

Emergency dental appointments are still valid reasons to leave home during this time. Practices are shutting their doors for routine checkups and elective procedures. However, patients can still come in to treat these emergency conditions. People can continue to find relief from oral health concerns.

Make an appointment

Patients should always call ahead for emergency appointments. These are the requirements during the ongoing Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Offices may not allow walk-ins. The ADA encourages dentists to have as few patients as possible in the facility at one time. Dentists can still get patients in for same-day appointments. Also, dentists are open late and on the weekends for these urgent needs.

Wearing protection

Good dental practices always emphasize being sanitary. It is especially important as Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) spreads. Dentists want to reduce the chances of an infected patient transmitting the disease to people in the building. Everyone who works with patients should wear a disposable facemask. Other equipment includes gloves, eye protection and a face shield. This protects the person from fluids and other direct contact.

Reporting infected patients

The dentist may detect that a patient has Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) symptoms. If this happens, the dentist should report this to the local health department. If the patient requires immediate dental work, the dentist should coordinate with the person’s health care provider. The physician will recommend where to perform the procedure and what other steps to take.

Professional and responsible about Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) prevention

As this pandemic continues, your dentist has your health in mind. The dentist must also look out for the wellness of other patients, staff members and themselves. The dentist will follow the ADA’s instructions to help stop the spread of COVID-19. If you have an appointment for emergency care, be prepared for these changes and conditions in the office. Rest assured that these are all for your oral health and overall health benefits.

Request an appointment here: https://www.drtimhubbs.com or call Vineyard Hills Dental Care at (925) 233-1143 for an appointment in our Livermore office.

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