Whether you’re dealing with something like COVID-19 or you’ve run into something else, you have found yourself not being able to get in with your dentist. Well, here for you is a very helpful list. There is still a way for those of you in the Palmdale, California area to take care of your dental concerns. These are six things you should do when you can’t visit your dentist right away.
1. Utilize Available Technologies
Your dentist should be able to use technology and still serve your dental needs. Make sure you utilize those technologies. Although you won’t be at your dental office, you can still receive instructions on how to get by until in-person care is available. Most dental offices are still open virtually so if you can get a virtual appointment they should be able to tell you what the problem is and if it is a serious issue or not. You might miss your regular dental checkup but your dentist can tell what to do to keep your teeth healthy during this time.
Through the use of phone, video, and web services, your provider can still assess your needs. He or she will also be able to direct you on the specific steps best suited for your specific concerns. One of those steps could be directing you to take prescriptions and over the counter medications.
2. Take Over the Counter and Prescription Medication
Do not ever start taking any new medicine unless you know it is safe for you to take it. You do not want to run into adverse reactions with your medication. Always make sure that your provider or pharmacist has given you the green light.
If for some reason you can’t go to your pharmacy, your pharmacist or your provider will have alternatives. You can have medicine delivered to your home, for example. Just make sure you do what your provider recommends. And trust they will do what is best for you.
Your provider may even be able to recommend home remedies with items you already have at home if you cannot leave your home.
3. Use Some of the Proven Home Remedies
If you happen to have these items in your house there are several home remedies that may be recommended to you by your healthcare provider. There are plenty of remedies known to work for people with dental concerns just like you. Most of the items you would need could already be at your home. If you have to shop for them, you should have no problems locating them in your local community.
Cold presses can help if you have inflammation and pain issues. Rinsing your mouth with water, garlic, and salt can help you with those issues, too. You can apply honey to your gums if they’re bleeding. And a warm compress can help you if dealing with an abscess. There are other effective remedies for you, too. So make sure you check with your dentist to choose the ones best suited for you.
4. Make Changes to Your Diet
And did you know dietary changes might have to take place? Do not be surprised if your dentist tells you to refrain from certain foods. There are many foods that can increase your tooth sensitivity or are more likely to wear away your enamel. For example, chewing on ice is not a good idea if you have tooth sensitivity as this can wear away the enamel on your teeth and also wears them down. Most dentists will recommend you stay away from this kind of behaviour.
Other foods can also cause extreme sensitivity and also wear away your teeth. Sugary soda and carbonated beverages can increase tooth decay so your best bet is to stick to drinking water.
Some foods that are spicy or very salty might have to be avoided in your diet. You also might have to refrain from eating citrus fruits as these can greatly increase tooth sensitivity. To help make your dental issues more bearable it might be suggested for you to enjoy something like a milkshake. If you have serious tooth pain and suspect you have a cavity try to avoid eating chewy and crunchy foods as those will cause your teeth to hurt more, instead try drinking smoothies, and eating soft foods.
5. Get Plenty of Rest and Sleep
You always need to be getting plenty of rest and sleep. And that is even more important when you are dealing with dental issues. Not getting enough shut-eye and downtime can impact your ability to deal with pain and have a positive mindset about your situation.
To help you get enough rest and sleep you can meditate and stretch more. You could turn to sleep innovative technologies like a sound machine, too. Or your dentist could recommend lifestyle changes or medicine.
6. Do Not Panic
It’s important you do not panic. This will only make your matters worse. You do have options in the meantime, and you should know you will be okay. Most dental issues do not need immediate medical attention so if you have to wait it out it will be okay.
If you need to speak to a professional for guidance there are many dentists out there that can help through phone appointments. For example, a dentist in Palmdale, CA is still providing patient care just as long as you are not showing symptoms. No matter what you will be able to make it through your wait period.
Six Steps for You to Remember
Presented above were six steps you should think about if you can’t get in with your dentist right away. Bookmark this page. It could come in handy for you in the future. There are many ways for you to still get the help you need so don’t wait until quarantine is over. Take the time you have and get help if you are suffering from dental issues. And if you have a loved one in need of dental care, you can share this list with them, too.
