The Impact of Coronavirus on the Dental Industry
The impact of Coronavirus on businesses and industries has been astronomical. Many have had to change the way they service their clients and customers. Others have simply had to close due to financial struggle.
Dental practices have been another industry that has been hit hard. To prevent the spread of the virus, they’ve had to restrict the services procedures that they offer and promote virtual consultations to control the number of patients that enter the practice.
Here, we look at the impact that COVID-19 has had on the industry as a whole in more detail.
Reasons for restrictions being in place
Some of the treatments that dentists provide for their patients can release aerosols which could easily spread the virus in the particles that become airborne. It’s particularly evident for clearing and polishing treatments.
If a patient was to have COVID, these particles can easily spread on surfaces and through the air. In some cases, it can even impact directly on the dentists. Standard precautions are therefore promoted by surgeons to control the spread of the virus. By doing this, it can help everyone in the practice to remain safe.
Who’s providing these safety guidelines?
The government is currently the voice for such announcements and guidelines. However, they would be taking these precautions based on the medical experts that they have behind the scenes.
According to the experts that they work with, the best way for dental practitioners to prevent the spread of the virus is to avoid providing treatment where particles can become airborne. Further advice is likely to be provided later down the line which can determine whether other treatments can go ahead.
What does this mean for patients?
Due to the guidelines, non-essential treatment is now no longer provided for patients or postponed until further notice. This means the following treatments are currently paused:
– Normal check-ups
– Teeth whitening
– Extractions
– Sore gum treatment
– Bad breath
– Loose teeth
– Scale and polish
Emergency treatments are still currently available for patients if they’re feeling severe pain or there is a possibility of oral health being damaged. This includes treatments such as:
– Extractions due to the tooth impacting the nerve root or damage to the tooth can be caused
– Damage to the upper teeth
– Ulcers forming
– Referrals that have been made by medical doctors where urgent treatment is required
Taking care your oral health
Considering your dentist Warrington-based may not provide their regular treatments for quite some time, it’s an important time to make sure you’re looking after your oral health as much as possible whilst you’re at home. Take the regular steps that we’re aware of in your daily routine to ensure your oral health is up to scratch when you eventually return.
