IT’S BEEN a couple of months since the lockdowns have been imposed in most of the country to prevent coronavirus transmissions.
While many provinces are easing strict lockdown procedures, it would be a while yet for many dental clinics to open, essential services they may be.
Even the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) has expressed the reluctance of members to open dental clinics as fast as they want to do so.
Dentists are concerned of the implications that oral health care procedures require during the coronavirus pandemic.
The reason is obvious: the very close proximity of the dentist and the dental team to a potential carrier of the corona virus infection.
Dentists obviously work closer to a potential source of infection, the oral cavity. This proximity is one of the reasons why it is mandatory for people to wear protective masks outside of their homes. And also a major reason why we should cover the mouth when coughing.
As it is, it is difficult to maintain social distancing which should be, on average, an ideal of two meters between persons. How much more and how much greater are the risks in a dental treatment procedure when the distance is not only close, it is very close?
In this pandemic, the PDA should exert extra efforts in its emphasis on infection control measures that MUST be implemented in a dental clinic. Where the dentists or dental clinics are not prepared or equipped for this crucial tasks, the PDA should provide the necessary support and guidelines. Infection control is also one area where our dental educational system needs a strong shot in the arm.
We must note that if a dentist gets infected and is asymptomatic (without signs of infection) for two weeks or less, the dentist can infect scores of patients and from there, the community spread will grow exponentially to a frightening degree.
Countless lives are at stake here. And the PDA is correct to be cautious.
Meanwhile, patients are still waiting for dental clinics to open. So, what to do?
Here, prevention is the key.
You might want to use a mouthwash for a start. The mouthwash is good to prevent plaque formation and prevent bad breath and tooth decay.
The good old adage of brushing your teeth twice a day still stands good and true today. When possible, use a fluoride toothpaste.
Change your toothbrush regularly. Use a dental floss to clean between the teeth at least once a day.
The things we have been writing before have never been more relevant today. That is, avoid sugary foods and drinks. We repeat: bacteria thrives on the sugar to produce acids which compromise the integrity of the tooth enamel, the hard surface which protects the tooth.
Quit smoking because it leads to the development of tartar on teeth, a condition that may lead to gum disease./PN
