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COVID-19 FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to visit my dentist during the pandemic?

Yes. Dentists have always followed very strict infection prevention and control procedures. With the additional COVID-19 guidance, dentists are providing you with the safest care possible. Their priority is to protect you, other patients and their staff.

What about the World Health Organization (WHO) recommending putting off non-essential dental care during COVID-19?

This guidance is meant for countries with wide-spread community transmission of COVID-19 and does not apply to what’s happening in Canada at this time. You can read more about this from our national partner, the Canadian Dental Association.

Rest assured, Ontario dentists have always followed strict infection control standards. During the pandemic, dentists are doing everything they can to put additional levels of protection in place to create the safest environment for everyone in the dental office.

I think I have a dental emergency. What do I do?

Call your dentist. They will ask you for information about your situation and give you advice about next steps. If you need to visit the office, they will let you know if they can help you or will direct you to another dentist or emergency clinic.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment. This includes:

  • Trauma – an injury to the mouth and face
  • Severe infection, such as an abscess or swelling
  • Bleeding that continues for a long time
  • Dental pain that can’t be managed by over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Advil

Can my dentist just prescribe medications for me over the phone?

Your dentist will decide if over-the-counter medications or prescription medications are necessary, or if you need to be seen at the office. If you need a prescription, your dentist may send it to the pharmacy directly.

How can I take care of my teeth before I can see my dentist?

Practicing good dental hygiene and following healthy lifestyle habits is more important than ever. Here are some tips:

  • Brush your teeth using the proper technique at least twice a day for two to three minutes each day.
  • Floss daily. It’s more effective than brushing alone, and helps to remove food debris and bacteria from places the toothbrush can’t reach.
  • Eat a healthy diet, rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D rich in omega-3 fats.
  • Quit or cutback on smoking.
  • Be mindful of stress. Regular exercise, meditation and deep breathing can help reduce the impact of stress on your mouth and immune system.
  • If you’re consuming alcohol or marijuana, do so in moderation. When you drink, your mouth is exposed to increased levels of sugars and acids found in alcohol, which can be damaging to your teeth. Marijuana smoke can cause oral cancer, dry mouth and staining, and THC can weaken your immune system.
  • Snack in moderation, and swish with water after eating sugary snacks to help wash away sugar and acid.
  • Chew sugarless gum to help stimulate saliva flow and avoid dry mouth. That salivary stimulation helps protect your teeth from decay-causing bacteria

Click here for tips to stay fresh under your mask.

How do I know if I have COVID-19?

The Ministry of Health has an online self-assessment tool to help you determine if you need to seek care.

If you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing other severe symptoms, call 911 immediately. Advise them of your symptoms and travel history.

Where can I find current, credible information about COVID-19?

The ODA recommends checking in daily with the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website for the latest updates: https://covid-19.ontario.ca.

Other reliable sources include:

Last updated: September 18, 2020 
This document was derived from the Ontario Dental Association website. 

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