Define Dental, dentistry and COVID-19: Can I see the dentist?

Have you been wondering: Can I see the dentist during COVID-19 restrictions?

It’s a fair question. Without doubt, the current global situation is one characterised by significant change, challenge, and confusion.

But before we launch into providing an answer to this pressing question, let’s take just a moment to appreciate that Easter is also a time for reflection and renewal.

And it’s with that in mind, the Define Dental team is taking the opportunity to send our warmest wishes to our entire community of patients, families, suppliers, and referrers. You are very much in our thoughts and your health, safety, and wellbeing remain our number one priority.

So where are we now with COVID-19?

Like us, you’re probably monitoring the updates and reports from authorities about how the situation is being managed.

You may have even heard some good news.

It seems the curve is flattening and the collective measures of local, state, and federal governments seem to be working.

Far from wanting people to be complacent, we’re now being urged to stay the course and continue with the good work that has helped to bring things under control. There is still more work to do. The success achieved to date is evidence that the community remaining vigilant and continuing to observe restrictions is the quickest and safest pathway to achieving the objective sought by all – a return to health.

Can I see the dentist during COVID-19 restrictions? What’s happening at Define Dental?

We’ve already shared with our patients the actions we’ve taken to meet the requirements of the Government and Australian Dental Association (ADA), but for good measure, we’re repeating them here:

• We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to stay up to date on all the developments, infection control, hygiene and safety ramifications
• Completed the latest practice accreditation assessment, empowering us to maintain our commitment to prioritising the health and safety of our patients, as well as providing our entire community with confidence and peace of mind when they visit us.

We know this is what you expect from Define Dental – and during this period, we’ll continue to follow recommendations from the ADA, Chief Medical Officer of Australia, and the World Health Organisation. We will also comply with our obligations under the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), including the current Level 3 restrictions.

What if I need to see a dentist?

Many patients have contacted us asking which dental services can be accessed right now. With fact very quickly getting lost in the fiction, let’s clear that up with a quick definition of what Level 3 restrictions mean for dental care.

The ADA has provided very clear guidance around the dental services which can be accessed under Level 3 restrictions.

In simple terms, unless you are experiencing a dental emergency, it is necessary to defer your next visit to the dentist. Right now, we can treat pain, swelling, infection, and bleeding. Routine dental treatment that is not causing pain, or preventive dental care like exams and cleaning, must be deferred. Just for the record, this is the only time you’ll ever hear us defer your regular hygiene clean!

What’s a COVID-classed dental emergency?

So what’s a dental emergency under the current restrictions? The table below helps answer that question.

Services that can be performed	Restricted services, defer treatment
Pain, swelling or toothache relief Damaged upper front teeth Soft tissue issues, such as serious Ulcers Where there is the potential for dental disease to worsen rapidly Anyone referred by their medical practitioner (GP).	All routine examinations and cleans Dental treatments for patients that do not fall into the scenarios described above or to the left are to be deferred until the restrictions are lifted.

Our role – and it’s one we take seriously – is to keep dental emergencies out of hospital emergency departments. However, if a patient is at risk of having COVID-19, or any symptoms, then treatment must be postponed, rather than make a visit to the practice.

We respectfully ask in all instances that you call us first, particularly if your symptoms are painful. If it’s determined that treatment cannot be postponed, we will talk through the options with you to manage the situation appropriately.

Define Dental: We’re here for you

As the Gold Coast’s longest operating dentist, we want to reassure our community that we’re here for you. Providing Level 3 restrictions are not elevated, my team and I, Dr Les Jabbour, are committed to personally ensuring Define Dental’s services remain available during this time of need.

Should circumstances change and the restriction levels along with it, Define Dental is obliged to comply. If this means we cannot see our patients, we will implement the support needed via teleconferencing or an appropriate referral pathway.

If you’re in any doubt at all about whether you need to see your dentist, simply get in touch. We can still be reached by phone, email or our contact form.

We’re all being reminded that ‘we’re in this together’ and Define Dental certainly shares this philosophy. In fact, it’s been part of our philosophy and professional ethos for over six decades.

Let’s keep working as a community to stay safe in the days and weeks ahead. That way we can look forward to reconnecting on the other side.

Coronavirus & Level 3 Restrictions 29.3.2020

Define Dental is the longest operating Gold Coast dentist. Located in Benowa on the Gold Coast, Define Dental has a team of dentists, led by Dr Les Jabbour, all of whom are committed to supporting their patients during the current challenges brought about by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Define Dental is meeting its AHPPC obligations and adhering to all restrictions on dental treatment delivery imposed by the Government and ADA, as well as implementing recommendations made by the World Health Organisation. Patients and suppliers with questions or concerns can contact us on 5597 2100 or via email.