Like so many industries across the world, the dental industry has been dramatically impacted by COVID-19. As a result of the pandemic, you may have had to reschedule a dental appointment. However, many states have lifted restrictions and businesses are open, including dental offices. Choosing when to return to the dentist is important and should be based on a number of factors.

Consider the following before scheduling your next appointment:

Preventive Dental Care is crucial to your oral health and overall well-being. During routine exams, your dentist can detect signs of many diseases including heart disease and diabetes. They can also identify early signs of oral health concerns that could become more expensive, complicated and uncomfortable if left untreated.

Infection Control Policies have always been top priority for dental practices. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, updated guidelines have been set by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and state health departments and agencies.

If You Have Painful Swelling in or around your mouth, swollen gums, bleeding that doesn’t stop or severe tooth pain caused by a broken filling or chipped tooth, you should call your dentist as you may require emergency dental care.

Here is what you may experience during your next appointment:

• Your dentist may call prior to your appointment and ask screening questions about your current health, including if you’ve had any COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever or cough).
• Your dentist may ask you to limit the number of people you bring to your appointment.
• Upon arrival, you may be asked to wait in your car or outside the office until the staff is ready.
• Your dental office may require you to wear a mask if your city or state have made this a public requirement.
• You may have your temperature taken by the dental staff when you arrive for your appointment.
• Office staff will be wearing more protective gear than they’ve done so previously, including masks, face shields, gowns and goggles. They may also have additional protective covers over equipment for easier cleaning between patients.
• After your appointment, the exam room will be thoroughly cleaned with disinfectants to prepare for the next patient.
• You may be asked to notify your dentist if you experience any COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of your appointment.

Please know these strict precautions have been taken to better protect you and your dentist. If you have any questions regarding safety protocols or infection control procedures, contact your dentist.