With COVID-19 looming as an ever-present threat, people are trying to find a new sense of normality. Figuring out which routines to keep can be challenging. Dental care is always important, but you may be wondering if it's safe and prudent to keep your ordinary dental appointments. Ask yourself these four questions to figure out whether you should go to the dentist:
1. Do you have a regularly scheduled cleaning coming up?
For optimal health, it's recommended that patients receive a dental exam at least twice a year. Many dentists help their patients stay on schedule by automatically scheduling these appointments as a courtesy. If you have a regularly scheduled dental cleaning coming up, it may be best to keep your appointment. One missed dental appointment may not seem like a big deal, but getting out of the habit could have disastrous consequences on your overall oral health. If you know you rely on routine to make sure you go to the dentist, it's wise to avoid skipping even a single appointment.
2. Is your dentist accepting patients for preventative treatments?
Dentists have their own concerns about COVID-19, and each dentist is dealing with the pandemic in their own way. Some dentists feel comfortable continuing to see patients during this time while using the appropriate safety measures. Others have decided to postpone preventative treatments, for the time being, instead choosing to only see patients with pressing emergencies. Call your dentist's office to find out what their current treatment policies are.
3. Are your teeth in good health?
Consider the general health of your teeth. People who are conscientious about brushing and flossing their teeth every day may be able to skip one or two dental exams. However, if you have a known history of dental problems, skipping your regularly scheduled dental exam is probably unwise. Oral health is partially determined by genetics. Some people are more prone to cavities due to soft teeth or the acidity of their saliva. If you know that you often suffer from tooth issues, keep your appointment with your dentist, if at all possible.
4. Are you comfortable with the idea?
Ultimately, you must do what feels right to you. Examine your feelings and try to gauge your own comfort level. If the idea of going to the dentist right now is alarming to you, it's fine to wait until you feel more comfortable doing so. Just don't put off your dental appointment for too long. Regular cleanings and x-rays are vital for preventing dental problems and catching cavities before they require root canals.
For more tips, reach out to someone like Dr. Jon Douglas Lesan, DDS, RpH, PA.
Share9 July 2020
Do you care for your teeth like you should? Most people brush their teeth, but so many people rush through this process and are not as careful as they should be. Still others avoid flossing. A lack of dental care over the years can lead to increased decay. Thankfully, we have dentists who can treat decay with fillings, crowns, and in some cases, root canals. Dentists also provide preventative care. They can clean your teeth and use things like fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel. The more you know about dental care, the better you'll be able to care for your mouth, so feel free to read some of the articles on this website.