WHO says to avoid routine dental visits during coronavirus pandemic

The World Health Organization is recommending that routine dental exams be postponed in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The WHO released new guidance on Tuesday that recommends foregoing checkups and dental cleanings because the visits require dentists to operate in close proximity to the faces of patients, which could more easily result in community spread. The WHO did say that there should be exceptions for serious procedures and emergency visits.