It’s no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic is causing massive disruptions in our daily lives. Hospitals are becoming crowded as they find it difficult to house more and more patients infected by the virus, making it even harder to be seen for an emergency. If you’re the type of person who visits the emergency room during a dental emergency, it’s worth taking a moment to learn why you should reconsider. After all, there are many benefits you can expect when you visit an emergency dentist.
Hospitals Pose a Higher Risk for COVID-19
Hospital workers and doctors do everything they can to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria and viruses. However, COVID-19 has proven itself to be extremely contagious, which is why so many states have ordered shelter-in-place measures to better contain the virus and prevent it’s spread. Since so many people are visiting hospitals for care, the risk for contracting the virus is actually much higher compared to visiting a dentist for your toothache.
If you want to reduce your risk of getting sick, the last place you want to be right now is a hospital considering how many COVID-19 patients are likely present in the building. Furthermore, people have been tested positive for COVID-19, despite not having any symptoms. Unless you’ve been tested, there’s no way to know for sure if you aren’t currently spreading the virus in areas where vulnerable people are located, such as a hospital.
Hospital Staff Are Already Overworked
Whether you know someone personally trying to navigate the healthcare system or you heard about it in the news, hospitals are busier than ever before. Due to so many patients needing care for COVID-19, it’s becoming more and more difficult for people to see a doctor in general, let alone for treatment. Instead of visiting the hospital, where workers are likely already heavily preoccupied, you can visit a dentist, who is far more likely to have the necessary space to manage your dental emergency.
Dentists are Already Open for Emergency Care
Keep in mind that seeing a dentist for a dental emergency rather than the emergency room should be standard practice to begin with (with the exception of managing a broken jaw or severe oral bleeding that does not stop.) Most emergency rooms are either not trained to handle dental emergencies, they can’t legally do so, or they will essentially provide you some over-the-counter painkillers and send you on your way, without addressing your dental issue.
In contrast, emergency dentists have the necessary training and technology to confirm the cause of your emergency, get you out of pain, and ensure that the problem does not come back later. On top of that, dental offices are likely closed for non-essential care (i.e. exams, cleanings, cosmetic treatments, etc.), but they can still see you for dental emergencies!
About the Author
Dr. Rodney L. Allen is more than prepared to provide treatment for those suffering from a dental emergency. With over 20 years of practice experience under his belt, he has the knowledge necessary to get you out of pain in a safe and sanitized office environment. To schedule an emergency appointment with his office, you can contact him through his website.