Dentist shares top tips for dental emergencies in lockdown

A dentist has shared his expert tips for tackling a dental emergency amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Amarinder Sehda joined Lorraine Kelly on today’s Good Morning Britain where he pleaded with viewers not to take drastic measures when dealing with painful matters in the mouth without consulting a specialist first.

‘We encourage some parts of DIY dentistry, but you must speak to us before you carry out any of these procedures,’ he said.

‘We can guide you with the right products to buy. Speak to us before you attempt anything, it’s very important.’

If, however, you’re in absolute agony, there are steps you can take.

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‘All you do is call up your regular dentist and we would advise you how to treat that and manage your problem,’ Amarinder pointed out.

‘If after a few days your problem hasn’t resolved or it’s got worse, give us a callback and we will advise you further and if necessary we’ll refer you to an urgent dental care centre.’

Elsewhere, Amarinder shared his dental tips and encouraged audiences to brush twice a day for two minutes, adding that you should spit but not rinse.

‘You must clean between your teeth and use some sort of floss,’ he added, pointing out that tooth picks should be avoided.

Once you’ve eaten something sugary, Amarinder advised not to brush teeth for at least 30 minutes.

Dentists have been closed apart from for emergency treatment since the country went into lockdown on March 23.

Treatment is only accessible at a limited number of emergency dental ‘hubs’, which you require a referral to from your registered dentist.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has not yet announced any plans to reopen dental surgeries as part of his gradual plan to ease lockdown.

In its latest statement following a slight easing of lockdown on May 11, the British Dental Association said: ‘Given the uncertainty and reflecting the practical consequences of the current official advice, we recommend that practices cease routine dentistry and operate an advice and emergency service only.’

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV.

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