Emergency Dentistry and the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disease: What Conditions Are Classified Under Non-Essential Procedures?

Non-essential: teeth cleanings and X-rays

Daily brushing is an effective way to stave off tooth decay. Patients should do this twice a day and floss once a day. However, twice-a-year visits to the dentist can further help patients remove plaque and other buildup from their teeth. Also, at wellness visits, a hygienist will take X-rays, showing the dentist a close look at the patient’s teeth. As the American Dental Association considers emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease, officials have deemed these two services as non-essential. Patients should continue good dental hygiene during this time.

Non-essential: minor cavities

There are times when filling a cavity would be an emergency. Some untreated cavities can turn into infections and cause intense pain. However, small cavities can wait for weeks or even months for the dentist to repair them. The question is how does the patient know whether they have a non-emergency cavity? If the person does not have a toothache or tooth sensitivity, filling the cavity is not a pressing matter. Also, some dentists may prefer to wait if the cavity is on a baby tooth.

Non-essential: cosmetic procedures

As embarrassing as it may be to have a broken or chipped tooth, it may not be an emergency. Again, this depends on whether the patient is in pain or cannot eat without discomfort. Another emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease question is whether to fix stained or discolored teeth. Teeth-whitening procedures are not emergencies and should not take place during the coronavirus pandemic.

Essential needs

Some oral health conditions require immediate treatment. Patients should go to the emergency dentist to repair severely broken or knocked-out teeth. Patients who have an intense, continuous toothache should also make an appointment. Jaw pain or swelling would also require a visit.

Wait your turn

If any of your current dental issues fall into the non-essential category, continue to care for your teeth. You can put off an appointment to the dentist until the pandemic restrictions are over. During this time of emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease uncertainty, pay attention to these guidelines so that you can make the right choice. If you are confused, call your dentist.