Coronavirus In Minnesota: Miss Your Dental Appointment? Here Are Some Tips For Keeping Your Teeth Healthy
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Dental offices across Minnesota and Wisconsin are closed due to COVID-19, but Dr. David Uppgaard of Nicollet Dental Arts has some tips for keeping your teeth in shape.
Uppgaard said not to worry too much about waiting for an appointment. Most patients will be fine; it just means the first visit after the COVID-19 pandemic might just be a little more tedious.
"By the time they get in, there may be more inflammation, gums bleeding, may be a little more red. The hygienist may have to work harder, but no imminent danger to the teeth," said Uppgaard.
He said brushing is key, but his other piece of advice is the one people don't tend to follow.
"My whole 34 years of dentistry I have been cajoling and begging and pleading with patients to floss," he said.
Even though cleanings have stopped, dentists are required to respond to calls and open for emergencies.
"Any swelling, you have to talk to somebody about that. Any pain, that is again worth a call," said Uppgaard.
If in doubt, he recommended giving your dentist a call; even though dental offices are closed, the phone lines are open. Uppgaard says it is extra important that people with underlying issues call right away if they have dental problems.
"Our biggest concerns are life-threatening infections," said Uppgaard.
Dentists are screening over the phone to see if patients have COVID-19 symptoms.
