Since July 2020, COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have been eased across Canada. Dental offices have expanded beyond limited urgent and emergency care and are now able to offer a range of oral health care services to patients. This page provides important information about your oral health care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Don’t delay your visit to the dentist
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of many, and has likely also interrupted good health habits and daily oral health care routines.
More frequent snacking, consuming more sugary foods and beverages, and not keeping up with regular brushing and flossing are all examples. These habits, combined with delaying visiting the dentist can have negative impacts on your oral and overall health.
Oral health is part of your overall health and it is important to stay on top if it. With a healthy mouth you can eat, speak and smile in comfort, which helps you feel physically, socially and mentally well. A healthy mouth helps you enjoy life. There are many things you can do to regain and maintain good oral health.
What you can do
Regain good oral health
To regain good oral health, if you were unable to have issues addressed or had treatments interrupted, you should book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. If you missed periodic appointments, it is important to get back to seeing your dentist regularly.
If you do not have a dental home, check out these tips on How to Find a Dentist.
Maintain good oral health
Taking good care of your teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment - one that includes a good oral hygiene routine at home between regular dental visits. You can maintain your oral and overall health by following these five steps:
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Check your mouth regularly for signs of gum disease and oral cancer
- Limit alcohol, and avoid smoking, smokeless tobacco and vaping
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and floss once a day.
Provincial guidelines and protocols vary
Provincial health officers and dental regulatory bodies have put in place enhanced guidelines and protocols which may vary from province to province due to different circumstances across Canada.
Dentists are infection control experts and dental offices strictly follow provincial guidelines and regulations that protect the health of patients and dental staff.
Your upcoming dental appointment
If you have questions about your upcoming dental appointment, please contact your dental office for more details on:
- what to expect at an upcoming dental visit
- available care options
- what to do before coming in for an appointment
Reminder: Please stay home if you have flu-like symptoms (fever, cough or difficulty breathing) or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you are sick and have an upcoming dental appointment, please call your dental office to report symptoms, reschedule or ask about available care options that are right for you.
