(US Air Force file photo)
NEW YORK – You should delay your routine tooth cleaning until the coronavirus pandemic is resolved, according to new guidance from the World Health Organization. Dentists, hygienists and other providers of oral care have an increased risk of taking COVID-19 and passing it on to patients, because ‘they are in close contact with their patients’ mouths, using spray-generating equipment’ t produce particles, [and] are exposed to saliva, blood and body fluids, “said WHO.
“WHO recommends that routine non-essential oral health care – such as check-ups, tooth cleaning, and preventive care – be delayed until there has been sufficient reduction in COVID-19 transmission rates,” the UN agency said.
Nearly three-quarters of the countries surveyed said the coronavirus pandemic had disrupted dental services – higher than for any other type of essential service, according to WHO.
Guidance on visiting a dentist
The World Health Organization says you should avoid going to the dentist for cleanings and other non-urgent reasons until the coronavirus pandemic is resolved.
Oral health is extremely important, so WHO carries customs providers to provide advice on maintaining good oral hygiene to their patients through remote consultation or social media.
But if you are in pain or have another urgent dental issue, you still need to seek care. To minimize the risk of viral transmission, your dentist should first screen you and evaluate your problem through a phone or video call.
“Urgent and necessary interventions for oral health care that are essential for maintaining a person’s oral functioning, managing severe pain or ensuring liveability should be provided, in order to avoid unnecessary visits to hospital emergency services,” WHO said. .
WHO also calls for dental practices to have “strict measures for infection prevention and control” to reduce the risk. That includes physical distance; wearing medical masks such as respirators, eye protection, and a disposable dress; frequent hand washing; and cleaning disinfection equipment and other surfaces.
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its own guidelines for dental providers earlier this month.
“As facilities for dental families begin elective procedures in accordance with the guidance of local and state officials, there are precautionary measures that need to remain in place as part of the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said CDC in a statement on Aug. 4. “Dental settings must be balanced to provide essential services while minimizing risks to patients and dental health personnel.”
As per the WHO guidelines, CDC also requires toothpick providers to screen patients remotely before any treatment and procedures are in the office. If patients though need to come to the office, they should wear a face mask before and after the treatment or procedure.
