Are You at High Risk for COVID-19? A Dentist Answers Your Questions

Adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic can be difficult, but it’s essential that we don’t let our guard down at this time. While many communities are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves during the pandemic, it’s important to recognize that certain groups fall into the category of “high risk” when it comes to the virus. These are people who are more likely to suffer from the harshest effects of COVID-19. If you are considered a high risk patient or have a family member that falls into this category, you probably have many questions on what to do next. For all high risk dental patients in Wayland, here’s what you need to know.

Who is Considered a “High Risk Patient?”

In general, those who are over 65 years of age are generally at higher risk of becoming severely ill after contracting COVID-19. However, if you have an underlying health condition, it doesn’t matter what age you are as your body is less capable of fighting the virus on its own.

For example, if you have any of the following conditions, you are considered a high risk patient:

• Lung conditions (i.e. moderate or severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, or another respiratory disorder.)
• Heart disease (i.e. high blood pressure, stroke, coronary disease, heart failure or a history of heart attack.)
• Type 1 or 2 Diabetes
• Weakened immune system (which can be caused by cancer treatment, bone marrow or organ transplant, HIV/AIDs etc.)
• Obesity
• Chronic kidney disease
• Liver Disease

How Do I Protect Myself or My Loved One?

• Avoid contact with people who do not live in your household and stay at home as much as possible.
• Practice social distancing and hand hygiene.
• Clean and sanitize commonly touched surfaces.
• Wear a cloth face covering when going out in public.
• Exercise regularly if possible, eat a balanced and healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and manage stress for a better immune system.

How Can I Safely Get the Groceries I Need?

• Use contactless shopping services whenever possible.
• Consider using drive-thru or in-store pickup as well.
• Shop during less crowded times of the day.
• Keep a list to avoid unnecessary time spent in the store.
• Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer immediately after leaving the store.
• Sanitize regularly touched items and packages after purchasing.

Should I Still Visit the Dentist If I Have an Appointment Scheduled?

• Call the dentist ahead of time to confirm if you need to reschedule an appointment.
• If you are experiencing a dental emergency, you should still be able to visit. Just make sure to call them ahead of time.
• If they are open for routine care, schedule a day and time when they are only serving high-risk patients as they will make additional accommodations for you then.

What Should I Do If I Have Symptoms?

If you have a fever, cough or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible. If you experience the warning signs of a heart attack or stroke, go to the emergency room.

If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the dentist for guidance!

About Wayland Dental

At this time, the dentists at Wayland Dental are not currently seeing patients for non-essential services. However, they are able to see patients for emergency dental care. As medical professionals, they are taking all the precautions necessary to ensure your safety in the event you need to visit, especially if you are a high risk patient. To handle a dental emergency or learn about their designated day for treating high-risk patients, you can contact their office through their website.