Dental services during COVID-19
Are dentists essential workers during the pandemic?
Dentistry is an essential service as dentists manage dental emergencies that would otherwise end up at the emergency room at hospital.
Non-urgent dental services (such as dental cleaning, denture services) are however deferred until further instruction from our governing body (updated as of May 2nd, 2020).
What is aerosol generating procedures and why is the dental setting a higher risk for COVID-19 transmission?
Aerosol generating procedures are medical procedures that produce airborne particles (i.e. aerosols). These procedures blast tiny droplets into the air and create a cloud of potentially infective agents that can linger in the air for hours. A lot of the dental procedures generate aerosols – even during examination when a puff of air is used to dry the tooth surface for better visibility! Another example is when your hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler to remove tenacious tartar from your teeth.
My dental clinics are not open, why?
Dental clinics that are not equipped with adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) are recommended to close to reduce community spread of COVID-19 and to protect the dental staff from infection.
I have a question regarding my teeth, who can I ask?
Call your dentist. Dentists are able to conduct telephone/audio-visual screening for your symptoms and will be able to advise you on the next course of action – e.g. whether your concerns warrant a visit at the clinic.
Are the dental clinics just screening or are they treating patients too?
Dental clinics that have the necessary, additional infection control protective equipment for the entire dental team can see patients for urgent and emergency treatment. These conditions may be
- potentially life-threatening
- bleeding from a dental site that does not stop
- teeth trauma
- create an extraordinary amount of pain that cannot be managed by over-the-counter medications
- patients who are at risk of infection
This list is by no means exhaustive, please contact your dental office to see if your symptoms warrant a visit in-person.
Did you want to learn more about topics related to dentistry? Check out our other dental blogs!
Legal Disclaimer
These presentations are intended for general information purposes only. Audience are recommended to consult with qualified dental healthcare provider and obtain professional advice and subsequent management for your particular conditions. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of Assisting in Medical Expectations.
