COVID-19 - What To Do If I Need A Dentist?
‘Can I see a dentist during the coronavirus outbreak?’
During the coronavirus outbreak dentists have been asked to change the way they deliver dental services. This is to reduce risks for you and them.
Routine appointments are not considered ‘essential’ and are paused for the time being.
Urgent dental care will still be available. If you have a regular dentist and need help, you should contact your usual dentist for advice on what to do next.
If you do not have an NHS dentist you can call NHS 111.
What Can I Do To Help?
There are many things you can do to care for the whole family’s oral health. Have a look at the helpful pages below.
Looking after your oral health will reduce the risks of getting a toothache. This is especially important as it may be more difficult to get dental treatment during the coronavirus outbreak.
You should always brush teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. One of these times should be before bed. All children need help to give their teeth a good clean until they are about 8. They will probably need reminding after this too!
There is information on when you should still see a dentist during the outbreak, and how to cope with some common tooth problems *here*.
When the current restrictions end it will be very important to rebook routine appointments for you and your family. Regularly seeing a dentist is an important part of having healthy teeth and gums.
Who Can Help?
You can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
You can speak to other Norfolk parents and carers by clicking our online community forum below.
