I’m a Pediatric Dentist. Here’s What I Want Parents to Know About Dental Care During COVID-19
As a pediatric dentist at Children’s Hospital of Orange County, I want to take a moment to address some of the most common concerns parents have about their children’s dental health during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The safety of your child’s oral health remains a priority, and despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19, maintaining proper dental care routines is more important now than ever. In this article, you’ll learn practical tips, what changes you can expect during dental visits, and how to protect your family while ensuring healthy smiles.
Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Despite COVID-19
Many parents have postponed routine dental checkups for their kids due to fear of COVID-19 exposure. However, delaying dental visits can cause minor issues to escalate into more serious problems, leading to pain, infection, or complicated treatments. Pediatric dental health impacts children’s overall health, immune system, nutrition, and even speech development. Here are some crucial reasons to keep up with dental care during the pandemic:
- Early identification of cavities, gum disease, and developmental issues.
- Maintaining daily hygiene habits and reinforcing positive oral care routines.
- Preventing pain and discomfort associated with untreated dental problems.
- Safeguarding your child’s confidence with a healthy, bright smile.
How Children’s Hospital of Orange County Keeps Your Child Safe During Dental Visits
Your family’s safety is our top priority. We have implemented strict infection control and safety protocols aligned with CDC guidelines to ensure every dental visit is as safe as possible:
- Pre-screening screenings: We call families to check for symptoms or exposure before appointments.
- Enhanced sanitization: All surfaces and equipment are disinfected routinely and thoroughly.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Our dental team wears masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves.
- Social distancing: Waiting rooms are redesigned to reduce crowding, and appointments are spaced out.
- Hand hygiene: Patients and staff must sanitize their hands frequently.
Top Practical Tips for Parents to Protect Their Children’s Dental Health During COVID-19
Besides professional dental care, parents play a vital role in maintaining their child’s oral health at home. Implement these practical strategies for the best results:
- Maintain consistent brushing and flossing: Brush your child’s teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Teach or assist young children to brush correctly for at least 2 minutes.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Reduce intake of sweets and sodas that can increase cavity risk.
- Encourage healthy hydration: Water keeps the mouth clean and helps neutralize acids.
- Watch for signs of dental problems: Look for tooth pain, swelling, or discoloration and seek professional care promptly.
- Keep regular dental appointments: Do not delay checkups or cleanings even during the pandemic.
- Model positive behavior: Kids learn habits by watching parents. Brush and floss together as a routine.
Common Parental Questions About Pediatric Dentistry and COVID-19
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is it safe to visit the dentist during COVID-19? | Yes, with enhanced safety protocols, dental clinics minimize COVID-19 risk effectively. |
| What if my child has dental pain during the pandemic? | Contact your pediatric dentist promptly; delays can worsen dental infections. |
| Are dental procedures postponed? | Non-urgent visits may be rescheduled, but essential care is prioritized. |
| How do I teach my child proper brushing during COVID? | Use fun timers or songs to encourage 2-minute brushing sessions twice daily. |
Firsthand Experience: How We Adapted to Protect Our Young Patients
At Children’s Hospital of Orange County, our team has embraced new protocols to ensure comfort and safety. Initially, parents worried about in-office visits, but after explaining our measures and showing our PPE usage, many reported feeling reassured. We also extended telehealth consultations for initial triage, helping parents understand when an in-person visit was necessary.
One memorable case involved a 5-year-old with a painful cavity. Despite the pandemic, timely dental treatment helped resolve the infection quickly and prevented further complications. This experience reinforced that access to pediatric dental care is critical, pandemic or not.
Benefits of Maintaining Pediatric Dental Care During COVID-19
- Prevents worsening dental problems and costly emergency treatments.
- Supports general health, immunity, and growth in children.
- Promotes mental well-being by preventing pain and discomfort.
- Teaches lifelong habits for oral hygiene and health maintenance.
Summary Table: COVID-19 Pediatric Dental Care Best Practices
| Category | Recommended Practice |
|---|---|
| Dental Visits | Keep appointments, follow clinic safety protocols. |
| Home Care | Brush 2x daily, floss, limit sugar, drink water. |
| Symptom Monitoring | Watch for pain, swelling, bleeding; call dentist promptly. |
| Parental Role | Model good habits, assist young children brush and floss. |
| COVID-19 Safety | Use masks, sanitize hands, practice social distancing where possible. |
Conclusion
As a dedicated pediatric dentist at Children’s Hospital of Orange County, I urge all parents to prioritize their children’s dental health—even during the challenges posed by COVID-19. Dental care is essential, safe, and effective when conducted with proper precautions. Together, we can protect your child’s smile and overall well-being through attentive oral hygiene, timely dental visits, and staying informed about safety measures. If you have concerns about your child’s dental health or upcoming appointments, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide and support your family every step of the way.
Stay safe, smile bright, and take good care!
