How To Handle A Dental Emergency During A Pandemic
Because COVID-19 cases are still prevalent in the United States, the government suggests that people stay home as much as they can, avoiding all non-essential activities. It may be wise to put off routine dental care until the coronavirus situation is under control. However, dental emergencies wait for no one. If you experience a toothache, cracked tooth, or another issue that requires immediate care, you must seek emergency dental care. Here are four tips that will help you handle a dental emergency during the pandemic:
1. Call your dentist ahead of time.
When you're in pain, you need treatment quickly. Many emergency dentists are able to treat patients on the same day. However, it's important that you call your dentist to schedule an appointment first. Even dentists who ordinarily treat walk-in patients prefer that clients call during the COVID-19 crisis. When you make an appointment, your dentist will have the opportunity to schedule you in a way that reduces your contact with other patients.
2. Wear a face mask.
Wear a face mask to your emergency dental appointment. You will have to take it off during the actual dental exam. However, wearing a mask in the waiting room will help keep fellow patients and staff members safe. A disposable paper mask or cloth mask will prevent the transmission of droplets that can carry the coronavirus. Arrive at your dentist's office wearing a mask over your nose and mouth. Continue wearing your mask until your dentist tells you to remove it.
3. Arrive on time.
Plan to arrive at your emergency dental appointment on time. When you arrive on time, you ensure that you won't miss your appointment due to tardiness. Showing up on time is the polite way to respect the time of your dentist and other patients. However, you should avoid arriving too early, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Dentist office personnel strive to keep the waiting room clear as much as possible to reduce the spread of illness. You may arrive a few minutes early, but try not to show up too far in advance.
4. Show up alone.
Ordinarily, it's fine if a friend or family member wants to accompany you to the dentist's office. However, during this time, many dentists recommend that patients arrive alone. Arriving at your emergency dental appointment on your own will keep the waiting room from filling up. When fewer people are present in the dentist's office, everyone's risk of getting sick is lower.