Dentists: Despite Corona for treatment

Carola Felchner is a freelance writer in the medical department and a certified training and nutrition advisor. She worked for various specialist magazines and online portals before becoming a freelance journalist in 2015. Before starting her internship, she studied translation and interpreting in Kempten and Munich.

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Filling fell out, pain when chewing - those affected with acute dental problems should visit the dentist despite the corona crisis. The dental association considers the risk of contracting the virus there to be low.

In view of exit restrictions, telephone sickness reports and social distancing, some with acute complaints or planned dental treatment ask the question: Is it still okay to go to the dental practice - or does the risk of contracting the coronavirus increase there?

The risk of contracting the coronavirus at the dentist is "very, very low" from the point of view of the Dental Association. It is not necessary to forego planned treatments, said Michael Frank, President of the State Dental Association of Hesse, of the German Press Agency. Patients should "not have to worry that they are taking a greater risk."

Hygiene high, patient flows equalized

"Our hygiene management is so good that the risk of infection is as good as ruled out - that was also the case before Corona," said Frank. In addition, the practices asked on the phone whether the patient could be infected. The patient flows would be equalized in such a way that there would be enough space in the waiting room.

However, patients should refrain from cleaning their teeth, for example. This creates a fine spray mist (aerosol) which, according to the Robert Koch Institute, should be avoided. Because masks with the FFP2 standard are currently difficult to obtain and should then also be reserved for clinics, doctors and specialist staff protect themselves with simple mouth protection. "That is completely sufficient." (caf / dpa)

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