Can I see my dentist for an emergency during COVID-19?

All of our efforts to protect the health of our patients, staff and fellow British Columbians seem to be paying off as BC has so far succeeded in flattening the curve. But we’re not out of the woods yet. Until the safety measures are lifted or relaxed, dentists in BC have had to suspend non-essential care and are providing emergency care to patients who need it.

The SCSBC (College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia) has defined emergency care as “potentially life-threatening conditions requiring immediate management or treatment to stop ongoing tissue bleeding, alleviate severe pain or infection…” This includes:

• Cellulitis as a result of an uncontrolled infection compromising the airway
• Severe uncontrolled hemorrhage (bleeding)
• Trauma to the orofacial complex especially to facial bones that potentially compromise the patient’s airway
• Uncontrolled severe pain
• Uncontrolled infection

Examples of non-essential dental care that are temporarily suspended include procedures such as routine x-rays, cleanings, restorative or aesthetic procedures and “orthodontic procedures other than those to address acute issues (e.g. pain, infection, trauma)”

The BCDA (BC Dental Association) has provided Covid-19 Information for Dental Patients as well as a list of emergency dentists and clinics.

All of us here at Riverside Heights Dental Centre miss our patients and look forward to resuming regular care as soon as possible. Until then, stay safe, and for any dental emergencies please don't hesitate to call us at 604-584-2535.