Is It Safe to Go to the Dentist During COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a virus that causes respiratory symptoms. The virus is thought to enter the body through breathing in droplets from coughing and sneezing. The virus causes symptoms like fever, cough, chills, sore throat, and shortness of breath.

A study published in the April 2020 issue of Nature Microbiology found that COVID-19 could be transmitted through saliva, and the virus enters the body by infecting oral tissue.

What steps should you take to protect your overall health during COVID-19?

First, make sure to do the following:

• Stay home if you are feeling sick or experiencing symptoms.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Wash your hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze using tissues, the inside of your elbow, or the middle three fingers of your hand.
• Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces.

Can COVID-19 be spread in a dental office?

The short answer is yes. However, it’s extremely unlikely.

In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that “transmission of COVID-19 occurs mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouth, nose, or throat of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.”

This means that COVID-19 can be spread through sneezing or coughing.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also shared that COVID-19 can be spread through close contacts, such as sharing food and drinks or kissing or hugging. These precautions have been put in place in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

If you’re worried about being exposed to COVID-19, you can talk to our dentist in Fort Smith or the dentist in Rogers before your visit.

What are my options for dental treatment?

Even though it’s recommended to shelter at home, there are still a few things you can do to take good care of your teeth. It’s best to eat soft, nutritious foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky.

You can brush your teeth, but make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle, circular motion. It’s also important to rinse your mouth out with water.

Unless you have an immediate dental issue, you’re usually allowed to schedule an appointment a few weeks or a month after you were last in the office.

What precautions should I take at my dental appointment?

• Wear a mask or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when speaking with our dental team.
• We request that you stay home if you are sick.
• Please wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after your appointment.

Preventative Dentistry also educates people about the benefits of good oral health. Get in touch with Parklane Family Dental for the best dental treatment and care. Call Dentist in Fort Smith, AR at (479) 782-0080 (Fort Smith, AR), (479) 484-0777 (Fort Smith, AR), or Dentist in Rogers, AR at (479) 273-0004 (Rogers, AR) to book an appointment or visit any of our locations.