On March 25, 2020, Governor Tim Walz suspended the practice of all non-emergent dental procedures in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Since this mandate, we have been working diligently on how we can continue to effectively care for our community’s dental needs. The order is effective from March 27 at 11:59 p.m. to May 17 at 11:59 p.m.

Why is Gentle Dentistry continuing to operate during this time?

• We are here to serve YOU, our valued patients, who may be dealing with dental emergencies. Our goal is to limit visits to the emergency rooms to avoid the spread of the virus, to allow the medical teams caring for those who may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and preserve necessary medical equipment.

What is considered to be a dental emergency?

• According to the ADA, “Dental emergencies are potentially life threatening and require immediate treatment to stop ongoing tissue bleeding [or to] alleviate severe pain or infection.” Conditions include uncontrolled bleeding; cellulitis or a diffuse soft tissue bacterial infection with intraoral or extraoral swelling that potentially compromises the patient’s airway; or trauma involving facial bones that potentially compromises the patient’s airway.”

What do I do if I am experiencing a dental emergency?

• Contact our office (952-224-9775) to leave a voicemail or e-mail (appointments@smilemn.com). A member of our team will contact you to obtain information and schedule a *Teledentistry triage with our on-call dentist to decide recommended course of action.

What if I am experiencing an issue that does not qualify as an emergency?

• Contact our office to leave a voicemail or an e-mail with any questions or to get recommended home remedies. Please understand we will be responding to these requests after the emergencies are triaged.

What if I want to make an appointment, change an existing appointment or ask questions about my account?

• Contact our office to leave a message for any non-emergent inquiry or requests.

When are you reopening for ALL dental services?

• When Governor Walz removes the mandate to postpone all non-emergent care, we will follow the recommendations of the MN Board of Dentistry, the CDC and the ADA to determine when we re-open and communicate that with you.

Our emergency response team is honored to provide you with care and guidance during these unprecedented times. We appreciate your patience, your continued loyalty, and for trusting us with your SMILE.