Dental Advice Covid-19

Covid-19 Dental Advice

by james Published
Dental Advice Covid-19
Covid-19 Dental Advice

It goes without saying at this time where at all possible people should stay at home and limit social contact during the Covid-19 restrictions. When out people should maintain a distance of at least 2 metres from other people. Wash your hands regularly with hot water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

While at home during this crisis normal oral hygiene procedure should continue to –

Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily or use interdental brushes
Use of a fluoride mouthwash

To prevent damage to your teeth while at home during the crisis

Avoid snacking as this increases risk of tooth decay
Keep normal routines of brushing before breakfast and before bed etc.
Avoid junk food which is high in sugar and causes toothwear and decay
Limit amount of strongly coloured foods/drinks like tea, coffee, red wine, curries etc which increase staining

Anxiety and stress

It goes without saying that this is an extremely stressful time for everyone and can create extreme anxiety. This can have a dental manifestation which can increase grinding/clenching which can lead to jaw ache, limited mouth opening, pain and some times broken/chipped teeth.

To reduce anxiety/stress try:

Limit social media
Only get news from trusted places such as the HSE or national broadcasters and radio.
Exercise daily
Maintain normal habits with regards to bedtime/wake up time meal times etc
Unwind with a book or TV series
Limit consumption of alcohol

Emergency Dentist

The clinic is open for dental emergency appointments. The following are what would be categorized as emergencies –

Pain that is disturbing your sleep.
Trauma with associated pain.
Swelling
Uncontrolled bleeding (haemorrhage)

People should not attend the surgery if

They are showing any symptoms of Covid-19.
If they have been self-isolating due to Covid-19
If they have been in contact with a confirmed case within the last 2 weeks.

Should you fall into one of the above categories and you need an appointment for a dental emergency call the practice and arrangements/advice can be given.

Symptoms of Covid-19

Fever (high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above)
Persistent cough
Shortness of breath (breathing difficulties)

If no symptoms of Covid-19 and attending for an emergency appointment

Call the practice before and get a time for appointment
Don’t come to the practice without an appointment
Attend at appointment time only
Come alone where possible
Follow all instructions on arrival given by the dental team

If you need to discuss any of the above or have a dental emergency don’t hesitate to contact us on 0214305569, info(at)shandondental.ie or via our website contact page.