TORONTO, ON — Emergency dental care is considered an essential service and the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) wants you to know what treatments you can expect during this time of social distancing in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Dentists have been directed not to do check-ups, non-emergency or cosmetic procedures so if you have an upcoming dental appointment, call your dentist to reschedule.
What’s a dental emergency?
- A severe injury to the teeth, mouth and face
- Severe infection, like an abscess or swelling
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Dental pain that can’t be managed by medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen
Not all dentists can treat emergencies or guard against COVID-19 but your dentist will have an emergency contact number so they can either help you over the phone or direct you where to go.
If you don’t have a dentist, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario has a list of emergency clinics. Please do not go to a hospital emergency room for a dental problem. Our health-care system is focused on treating COVID-19 patients and other medical emergencies. You could also run the risk of infecting someone or becoming infected by going to the hospital.
Brush and floss!
Dental health is a key part of maintaining overall health and well-being so it’s especially important during this time to keep up with good dental care routines like brushing twice a day and flossing daily. It prevents bacteria build-up and inflammation which can affect your immune system.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Donations
The ODA is working with its local dental branches and other organizations to coordinate PPE donations for emergency dental clinics, hospitals, long-term care homes and public health units. There’s a lot of interest in the dental community to help out and we’re keeping dentists updated on how they can.
For more COVID-19 dental facts and information on other dental issues, go to www.oda.ca.
About the Ontario Dental Association
The ODA has been the voluntary professional association for dentists in Ontario since 1867. Today, we represent more than 9,000, or nine in 10, dentists across the province. The ODA is Ontario’s primary source of information on oral health and the dental profession. We advocate for accessible and sustainable optimal oral health for all Ontarians by working with health-care professionals, governments, the private sector and the public. For helpful dental care tips, visit www.youroralhealth.ca.