Can I Get Dental Care During the Pandemic?

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has delayed a wide range of routine and elective health procedures, including dental and oral health care services. Although the country has re-opened in many areas, officials in some states have rolled back their decisions with the recent uptick in overall COVID-19 and hospital ICU surge cases. Dental services are risky because the virus spreads easily from the respiratory system. As a result, you might not be able to receive dental care during the pandemic. The following steps can help you make that determination:

Check the ADA’s Websites

The American Dental Association maintains several websites related to the coronavirus that outline best dental practices and current restrictions. For example, the ADA’s Center for Professional Success for dental service providers lists on its website information that can tell you if officials consider it safe for people to receive dental care at this time in your specific state.

Talk to Your Dentist

Even if your state’s health department allows dental services, your dentist might only offer in-person services for critical care and emergencies. Your dentist might restrict how many patients can enter their building at one time. They might only offer dental advice telehealth appointments via video conferencing software. Healthcare delays over the last several months have also resulted in a backlog, which means you might not even be able to get an appointment for several more months.

Consider Your Current Situation

It’s also important that you base your decision on your circumstances. If you had a routine appointment prior to the shutdowns and no health problems, your dentist might recommend that you wait to visit their office until next year. If you’re elderly or you have one or more underlying conditions that can put your health at risk or live with someone who is a high risk, you might be told that it’s better for you to wait until the country or your region has improved case-wise.

Keep in mind that events are changing rapidly not only day-to-day but also hour-to-hour. This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision about your dental care. The fact is that poor oral health can cause permanent tooth, gum, and jaw bone losses and even health problems in other areas of the body. Call a member of our caring team today to help you better understand your options.