There is currently no data on the spread of the coronavirus from the dentist’s chair, he said, calling for more research into common procedures that produce tiny floating particles that can cause infection if inhaled. These include three-way air / water spray, ultrasonic cleaning equipment that removes deposits from the tooth surface and polishing, the WHO said in a new guide.
“The WHO guidelines recommend in case of community transmission to give priority to urgent or emergency oral cases, to avoid or minimize procedures that may generate aerosols, to prioritize a set of interventions clinics performed using an instrument and of course delaying non-essential routine oral health care, ”said Benoit Varenne, a WHO dentist, during a press briefing.
The Washington Post has answered thousands of questions from readers about life during the coronavirus pandemic, and many have asked if they should go to upcoming dental appointments. Dentists and public health experts fear Americans will postpone routine cleanings, which could worsen health problems in the months or years to come. “Dentistry is not an elective procedure,” said Purnima Kumar, professor of periodontology at Ohio State University. “They are important for the health of your mouth, as well as the health of the rest of your body.”
In March, the CDC recommended that dentists only conduct emergency procedures for patients who would otherwise end up in overworked emergency rooms. Since then, states across the country have largely lifted stay-at-home restrictions, businesses are starting to reopen, and dentists are making regular registrations. The American Dental Association and the CDC provide practical advice on how practices should proceed with dental procedures while limiting face-to-face interactions.
Brushing and Flossing your teeth
Now more than ever, dental health experts say people need to be diligent about their personal health at home – whether it’s focusing on their diet, exercise, or oral health. . “The health of your mouth also has an impact on your heart, your lungs, your kidneys, your brain, everything,” Gurenlian said. “These are good positive steps to fight any infection in our body.”
Take the time to brush your teeth well and floss twice a day in case you have to postpone an appointment for any reason. And, if there is a day when your teeth are funny or you can’t eat a scoop of ice cream because it’s too cold, contact your dentist, Kumar said. Be vigilant and ask questions. “If you have any doubts, if in doubt just pick up the phone and call the dentist,” Kumar said. “Let the professional judge: do you need to come now or can you wait longer?” As the number of reported covid-19 cases rises and falls in different parts of the country, some communities are going to be at higher risk than others. Dental health experts and epidemiologists say people should monitor their public health department’s case counts before making an appointment with their dentist. What is safe and when can depend on where you live.
