How Will Coronavirus Impact Your Dental Appointment?

Like many other industries across the U.S., dental offices have been dramatically changed by the novel coronavirus. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), most dentists opted to close their clinics except for urgent or emergency procedures. As social distancing guidelines are beginning to relax, many states are allowing practices to reopen for elective procedures in the Dallas and Houston, TX areas.

So, is it safe to go to the dentist now? And what happens if you experience a dental emergency? Even though your experience at MINT dentistry will be a little different now, patients are more than welcome to schedule appointments once again for comprehensive general dentistry services. You can rest assured that our offices comply with CDC guidelines as well as local and state ordinances to ensure your complete dental safety and health.

Visiting during a dental emergency

MINT dentistry will be a little different now, patients are more than welcome to schedule appointments once again for comprehensive general dentistry services. You can rest assured that our offices comply with CDC guidelines as well as local and state ordinances to ensure your complete dental safety and health.

The professionals at MINT dentistry take their roles as health care providers very seriously, especially in the middle of a pandemic. Even though social distancing and staying home are key to controlling the spread of the virus, dental emergencies may still occur when you least expect them. Ignoring any dental emergency is not advised, especially if you are in pain. This could indicate an infection that could spread and become life-threatening. Some examples of dental emergencies include but are not limited to:

MINT dentistry will be a little different now, patients are more than welcome to schedule appointments once again for comprehensive general dentistry services. You can rest assured that our offices comply with CDC guidelines as well as local and state ordinances to ensure your complete dental safety and health.

A toothache, or pain in the gums or jaw

• Redness, swelling, or inflammation in the mouth or jaw

• Trauma to the teeth or jaw

• Tooth fracture or tooth loss

• Damaged or lost dental restoration

• Damaged dental appliances, such as orthodontic wire

Before your dental appointment

Patients with common coronavirus symptoms, such as a persistent cough, fever, or respiratory issues, should contact their primary health provider right away for advice. Follow their instructions closely and do not expose yourself to others in the meantime. Only individuals with no known coronavirus symptoms should visit MINT dentistry at this time. If your area requires people to wear masks in public, make sure to prepare one before going to your dental appointment. We suggest using medical masks or respirators any time you go outdoors.

During your dental appointment

When you arrive for your dental cleaning procedure, or another appointment at MINT dentistry, you may notice things work a little differently. All of our patients will be screened upon check-in, including a temperature check and health questionnaire. Our dental personnel will also undergo these daily health screenings. Masks are offered to everyone, and our staff is equipped with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and eyewear. For every mask given to a patient, MINT dentistry is proud to donate a mask to a local hospital.

Individuals are asked to practice social distancing in our Dallas and Houston, TX office, staying at least six feet apart from each other at all times. We also have sanitizing stations available for your convenience. In the dental chair, you may notice additional precautions we have taken in accordance with CDC guidelines for your dental safety, including the use of sterile instruments and devices. Patients will also be given an antimicrobial mouth rinse before their dental cleaning procedures. These additional measures allow us to protect both you and your dentist.

After your dental appointment

After your appointment is over, MINT dentistry will clean your area with strong disinfectants that are effective against the coronavirus. Our staff members continually sanitize items such as door handles, countertops, and furniture on a regular basis. This helps us prepare for the next dental patient and reduce the risk of spreading the illness to others. If you feel ill or experience symptoms within 14 days of your appointment, call our office right away. Patients with any concerns about our dental cleaning procedures are welcome to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members.

Is it safe to go to the dentist now?

From the front office to the examination room, MINT dentistry is made up of professionals who take your dental safety and health very seriously. With expertise ranging from dental implants to veneers, we can also correct a wide variety of cosmetic problems. Whether you have a dental emergency or require a cleaning, our staff is here to help. MINT dentistry is proud to use advanced, state-of-the-art equipment and technology to offer top-notch care in Dallas and Houston, TX. Schedule a dental appointment by calling a member of our staff today. We will do everything in our power to make sure it is safe to go to the dentist now.