Social Distancing’s Impact on Dentistry

It is impossible to treat a dental patient while practicing social distancing, which is why there was no choice but to have dental clinics to temporarily shut down. It is a time when people feel helpless because everyone’s hands are tied. That said, it was imperative to do so to be able to keep people safe. Keeping people protected and healthy is absolutely the number one priority at this time.

Even if someone has a dental emergency, the situation is still high risk, especially because scientists and medical staff are still learning about this virus. We do know, however, that the virus can spread through mucus, saliva, and respiratory droplets. In the dental community, dealing with the public right now is just too close for comfort, on both sides. We are in a time where we literally have to assume that anyone we come in contact with could have COVID-19.

The best thing that people can do at home right now is make their own personal dental care a priority. It’s easy to slack off when you are always at home and lounging around, but you really need to stay on top of it. Plus, when you don’t take care of your dental health, it can affect the rest of your body.

And for those of you who say you don’t have time to floss…you have all of the time in the world now.

Being proactive and focusing on prevention is key. We need to keep ourselves in optimal health everyday…and especially at a fragile time like this.

Stay safe everyone. Wash you hands often. Practice social distancing.

We will get through this.

The Staff at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry