As many of you are already aware, the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is affecting people and businesses around the world, including our own. As Westside Dental Center, we want to keep you informed on our response to the COVID-19 crisis in addition to providing you with some information on how to maintain your dental health during this time.
Westside Dental Center’s Response to COVID-19
The health and safety of our staff and patients is our top priority. Based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) that citizens self-isolate during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Dham has decided to close until 3/31. All routine dental cleanings and non-essential treatments have been suspended until 3/31.
Westside Dental Center will continue to provide emergency care for all patients of record. Please contact the office in case of a dental emergency at (954) 476-4535.
We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time. As health care professionals, we all have a role to play in “flattening the curve” in order to follow the sound, scientific public health advice to help limit infections and slow the spread of the virus. We will reschedule all canceled appointments in a timely manner upon reopening the office.
Our team will continue to closely monitor the latest information and recommendations to promote a safe and healthy environment for our patients and staff. In the meantime, we wish everyone in our community continued health and safety as we all work together to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Tips for Maintaining Your Dental Health
We understand that this is a particularly stressful time for our patients. Here are our best tips for maintaining your dental health under these high levels of stress:
Eat a Balanced Diet
Many people reach for comfort foods during high amounts of stress. Unfortunately, a lot of comfort foods leave behind sticky residues and staining agents on your teeth. Foods like hard-candies, potato chips, citrus fruits, and tomato-based sauces are known for being tough on your teeth. Additionally, beverages like sodas, coffees, and teas can have similar negative effects. We want to encourage our patients to practice consuming these substances in moderation during this crisis to avoid plaque and tartar buildup. If you do indulge, please make sure to follow up by thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth to keep your teeth healthy and bright.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
With all of our daily routines thrown off right now, it can be difficult to know what to prioritize. We want to encourage our patients to continue practicing their best oral hygiene habits, even during this crisis. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day can go a long way in preventing future dental concerns. Our team does not want to see our patients suffering from the consequences of neglecting their oral health after this crisis subsides. By brushing and flossing regularly, you are doing your part in preventing future stress-causing dental concerns in the future.
Relax Your Jaw
Many of our patients suffer from TMJ disorders or chronic jaw pain. Additionally, many people hold a lot of their stress in their facial muscles without even knowing it. If you experience tension headaches, earaches, and jaw pain during this time, make sure to mention this at your next dental appointment. Additionally, be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of teeth grinding, which is another common reaction to high levels of stress. Patients should take breaks throughout their day to relax their facial muscles and wiggle their jaw around to reduce the amount of tension held in their facial muscles.
Again, we look forward to seeing all of our patients again soon. When the COVID-19 crisis subsides, please make sure to schedule an appointment with our team so we can provide you with comprehensive dental care.