Hi there,
Last year, I started the process for getting dental implants. First I had a bone graft, then had the implant surgically placed. Now that I’ve healed up, I can finally get my porcelain crown placed. However, my crown placement appointment is right in the middle of a pandemic! I’m eager to get my crown, but I’m not sure if it counts as “essential”. It’s essential to me, but I can live a little longer without it if necessary. However, a lot of non-essential businesses are reopening, so I’m considering keeping my appointment. Should I keep it, or reschedule it? I’m not sure what to do.
Shayne, from Cleveland, OH
Hi Shayne,
This is a stressful and confusing time for everyone. CDC guidelines advise against any non-essential excursions, but stop short of actually explaining what that means. What is non-essential to some may be essential to others, so to avoid confusion, the CDC kept it vague.
If you were having a toothache or pain, you would go in to see your dentist right away for an emergency. If your jaw has fully healed and you are not in pain, you can probably reschedule your appointment with no issue. However, if you have had to change your eating habits since the surgery and cannot eat without discomfort, you may want to keep it. Dental implants are more than just aesthetic – they are replacements for your natural teeth that your mouth needs in order to function. There is no right or wrong answer here, it really is up to you and what you feel most comfortable doing.
Dental offices, like most businesses, are taking extra precautions during these unpredictable times. You will likely need to wear a mask or face covering to your appointment, and practice social distancing in the waiting room.
One thing you can do is talk to your dentist. He or she will be able to tell you whether you can safely reschedule or if you should still keep your appointment. They know you best, and can help guide you to make the best decision for you. You can also ask about any new guidelines or procedures that have recently been put in place.
This blog post is brought to you by San Antonio dental implant provider, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, of 5 Star Dental Group.