Since early 2020, people across the United States and worldwide have been adjusting to new concerns as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Caused by a novel coronavirus, COVID-19 transmits through the respiratory droplets of infected individuals. COVID-19 is highly contagious, and even people without any symptoms can be carriers of the virus.
As we take steps to socially distance, test and trace, and minimize the spread of the virus, lots of aspects of daily life have changed. Because of COVID-19, you may have delayed personal life events, travel plans, or family visits. As you face decisions for you and your family this summer and fall, you might be wondering about needed medical treatments, including trips to the dentist.
At Sunrise Dental of Moses Lake, located in Moses Lake and Moses Lake Valley, Washington, our experienced and knowledgeable care team, led by RJ Henneberg, DDS and Rachel Deininger, DDS, can advise you on the best way to proceed with your oral and dental care needs during these unusual times.
Depending on the nature of your oral and dental issues, we may recommend immediate care. If you need care right away, we take steps to protect you and your loved ones from contracting COVID-19.
COVID-19 and dental treatment
COVID-19 spreads through contact with respiratory droplets. As the CDC notes, because dentistry involves working on your mouth, sometimes for sustained amounts of time, we take extra precautions to prevent COVID-19.
If you have a dental emergency, such as a missing or broken tooth, a painful cavity, or a loose or missing crown, you may require immediate care. You may need oral surgery or a root canal to deal with pressing dental problems. Additionally, missing preventative treatments, including your regular scheduled cleanings, can lead to worsened oral or dental health issues down the road.
Taking steps to protect each other
If you need dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic, our dental team takes precautionary measures to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. With heightened attention to cleaning and flexible scheduling options, we can still give you the care you need.
We use top-of-the-line professional protective equipment (PPE), including masks, face shields, and gloves to limit any exposure to respiratory droplets. Additionally, we may ask you to use a mouthwash before we start treatment to sterilize the interior of your mouth.
To discuss treatment for your urgent dental needs, or to make plans for your future cosmetic dentistry treatment options, get in touch with our team at Sunrise Dental of Moses Lake today. You can contact our Moses Lake and Moses Lake Valley, Washington, offices by giving us a call today.