A Guide To Your Oral Health During COVID-19

---

With dental clinics across the country suspending all non-emergency dental treatment, it is more important than ever to keep up with your oral hygiene routine at home. Some of the things you must do to protect your dental and overall health include:

• Wash your hands frequently: Aim for at least 20 seconds before and after dental care
• Brush at least twice a day: Brush your teeth in the morning and before going to bed and make sure to get all those hard-to-reach spots
• Floss once a day: This will help remove bacteria and plaque in places your toothbrush can’t reach
• Eat a healthy diet: While at home, limit sticky, sugary snacks
• Drink plenty of water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water (at least 2 litres)
• Avoid smoking: Smoking limits blood flow to your mouth, making it easier for bacteria to grow

Dental Emergency Treatment and Telehealth Dental Care at Our Calgary Clinic During COVID-19

As we navigate these unprecedented and difficult times, our main priority is the health and well-being of our patients, staff, and community. That’s why we have suspended all non-emergency dental care in our effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.

However, we understand that dental emergencies can spring up at any time, which is why our Calgary dentists are still on hand to assist you with any urgent conditions or concerns.

Want to know more about our telehealth emergency dental care during COVID-19?

TELEHEALTH DENTAL SERVICES FOR URGENT ORAL CARE IN CALGARY

What Should I Do In Case of a Dental Emergency During COVID-19?

For your safety and the safety of healthcare providers, please do not visit an emergency room or urgent care clinic for your dental needs. Our Calgary dentists can help you with any dental emergencies over the phone and make appropriate arrangements if you require care.

In general, something qualifies as a dental emergency if it puts you in a high risk position. This may include uncontrolled bleeding or a bacterial infection that causes swelling and unmanageable pain.

COMMON SIGNS YOU NEED URGENT DENTAL CARE DURING COVID-19

General Guidelines For Any Dental Issues That May Arise

Are you suffering from a dental concern? There are many issues you can temporarily solve with items from your medicine cabinet or local pharmacy.

Dental Pain

For dental pain, the key is whether or not there is swelling and if the pain continues.

• For pain without swelling: You can use common OTC pain medications such as ibuprofen.
• For pain with swelling: In addition to OTC pain medicines, rinse your mouth with warm salt water for short-term relief. Talk to your dentist for further guidance.

Fractured Tooth, Lost Filling/Crown/Bridge

You can get OTC temporary filling material from the dental aisle of your pharmacy. Many of these products may even be available online and can be delivered to your home. Just make sure to call your dentist as they can give you advice on the best way forward.

Trauma

If you experience a physical injury to your mouth, make sure to contact your dentist for guidance. We use telehealth services to evaluate your situation and recommend the next steps.

What Should I Expect in The Coming Weeks and Months?

The dental community in Calgary is continuing to adjust to the rapidly changing situation with COVID-19. In the short term, our dentists are focused on providing emergency dental care and giving our patients the resources they need to protect their oral health.

As the situation evolves, we will adjust to the recommended guidelines to ensure the safety of our patients, staff, and community.

Have a Dental Emergency or Question About Your Oral Health?

If you have a question about your oral health, or you think you have a dental emergency, our Calgary dentists are only a phone call away. We will ask you for information regarding your situation and advise you on any necessary next steps. If you do need to visit the clinic, we will book an appointment.

To find out more, contact us at 403-248-2066 or fill in our online contact form.