What counts as a dental emergency during COVID-19?

What counts as an emergency now?

We’re open for emergencies on a case-by-case basis. We’ll list our next appointments on the front page of our website, so you can easily check our availability. Online scheduling is currently unavailable, so call or email us to reserve some time. The American Dental Association published professional guidelines to help us decide if a visit is in order, or if we can wait for social distancing requirements to relax before scheduling. Here are the details:

Potentially an emergency:

  • Severe dental pain that can’t be managed at home
  • An abscess or infection resulting in pain and swelling in or around your mouth
  • Dental trauma like severely broken or knocked out teeth
  • Removal of stitches
  • Final crown/bridge cementation if the temporary is lost or broken

Probably not an emergency:

  • Preventative wellness or gum care visits
  • Invisalign treatment
  • Removal of teeth that don’t hurt
  • Fillings or crowns on teeth that are not painful
  • Small chips that are not painful
  • Elective dental procedures like whitening or veneers

If you aren’t sure if your symptoms can be managed at home, or if you’re experiencing an emergency, please reach out to us.