Dentists Disagree with the WHO's COVID-19 Decision

The American Dental Association (ADA) released a statement on August 12, 2020, stating it "respectfully yet strongly disagrees" with the WHO's interim guidance recommending that "routine" dental care be delayed in certain situations because of COVID-19.

The ADA Board of Trustees adopted an ad interim policy stating dentistry is essential healthcare and the House of Delegates will consider it as a resolution during its virtual meeting in October 2020.

ADA President Chad P. Gehani stated in the press statement: "Dentistry is essential health care because of its role in evaluating, diagnosing, preventing, or treating oral diseases, which can affect systemic health."

On August 28, 2020, the U.S. CDC published an update on the Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Dental Settings During the COVID-19 Response with additional guidance and clarification for dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic.