Can you visit the dentist during coronavirus Pandemic?

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During this time of corona virus pandemic with uncertainty and unpredictability of the future which is affecting all the world at economical , financial and mental level . With the number of cases increasing in cities and most of the parts in India, our minds filled with fear of getting affected by this virus..but your Tooth does not know about it ...India began a gradual lifting of its nationwide corona virus lock down with dental clinics reopening in a bid to serve patients with Dentists following all the protocols.

Let us consider the case of Mr.Pawar. Mr. Pawar detected a cavity in his lower molar which now has started aching , despite taking self medication for pain relief it does not seem to get better. There are lot of questions and doubts Mr. Pawar has if he Plans to visit a dental office.

Is it safe for him to visit dentist during pandemic?
What precautions he can take?
How will the appointment be?
What changes can be seen in the dental hospital or during the treatment procedure?
Will all the instruments be cleaned before the procedure?
Can he even get other procedures also done like cleaning or teeth whitening along with painful tooth?

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Why do we have to take precautions when it comes to dental visit?

By now you guys must have read or seen how This corona virus disease is spreading?

It can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person.

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Should you be concerned about going to the dentist?

 If we consider the dental procedures ,Dentist of course has to deal with mouth (oral cavity) and during the procedure there are higher chances of transmission of the disease or the chances of cross infection is higher.
Government has only allowed the dentist for carrying out the emergency procedures. (This may change as the Covid-19 pandemic progresses)

What are emergency dental procedures for?

• Painful fractured tooth
• Dislodged tooth due to trauma
• severe tooth ache
• abscess or localized swelling around tooth (gum swelling)
• Dental treatment cementation if the temporary restoration is lost, broken or causing gingival irritation.
• denture adjustments
• snipping or adjustments of an orthodontic wire or appliances piercing or ulcerating the oral mucosa.

What are non emergency procedures ?

• Routine dental check up
• Dental cleaning and other preventing treatments
• Restorative Dentistry (Dental Cement fillings and Crowns)
• Aesthetic procedures such as Teeth whitening

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What can you do if you need to visit Dentist during pandemic?

• Best is to call the dental office before the appointment.
• Ask If you could read and fill the consent form,covid declaration form and fill out the information form online or through phone.
• Give your dentist information regarding latest travel, contact with covid positive patient or serving them, any symptoms of flu or recent medical history.
• Always prefer online payment.
• Be patient cooperate with the staff for best service.
• Do not reach earlier than the appointment time.

What can you do before the appointment ?

• Brush your teeth properly.
• Try to wear only slippers or sandals
• Wear half sleeve shirt or t-shirt (so that you can sanitize your hands till your elbow)
• Preferably visit alone.
• Avoid taking pain killers before the appointment or Keep your dentist updated regarding the self medications you take.
• Try to carry less things for e.g. vehicle keys or phone
• Avoid stop overs on the way to the clinic.

After reaching the clinic there may not be much of the waiting time and you would be called in directly. 

Before the procedures 

1)You can apply the alcohol hand rub given to sanitize up to elbow.
2)Your temperature will be checked with preferably infrared thermometer.
3)You may be asked to sign the consent form, covid-19 declaration form or patient information form.

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During the treatment 

Best thing you can do is cooperate with your Dentist and let him give you the best service possible ! 

Remember that Dentists are expert at Infection control !

Also Dentists are following the government protocols for carrying out the treatment.
Do not panic after a toothache. Dentists are there to take care of it. Be rest assured.

It is important for everyone to remember that ,during this difficult times of corona pandemic we are responsible for ourselves as well as others for their good health.

As I always say, Just try to get the best treatment possible when it comes to your health.
An investment in your health is always a good investment. Always make sure that you are in good hands and proper care is provided!