Assessing the practice protocol of dental practitioners during COVID-19 pandemic: A questionnaire study

Abstract

Background: The current COVID-19 pandemic has become a serious issue for the health-care professionals including dental practitioners. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 subjects were selected for the study. An online questionnaire using Google Forms was used to collect the data regarding the dentist's knowledge, perceptions and infection control in dental clinics and if they were affected by COVID-19. Data were analysed using software. Results: Out of 100 participants, 61% of them were male with a mean age of 35.21 years. More than 50% of practitioners took 10–20 min for completion of their procedure. 66% used all the personal protective equipment (PPE) with 64% of them using an N95 mask and around 90% used the PPE kit. Amongst the study group, it was found that 3% were affected by COVID-19, who were between 27 and 33 years. All of them used PPE kit with 67% using N95 mask and 33% used half respirator. 67% amongst them used high-speed handpiece and performed aerosol-producing procedures in a well-ventilated atmosphere with air conditioners. Conclusion: The findings of the study showed that the maximum number of practitioners did follow the clinical protection protocol and when all protocol was followed, the number of dental practitioners affected by COVID-19 was not statistically significant.

Keywords

• covid-19
• dentists
• pandemic