Covid-19- Knowledge And Practice Among Dentists- A Questionnaire Based Study

Abstract

AIM: To assess the level of knowledge and attitude regarding COVID-19 infection in clinical practice among
Bangalore dentists.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study population consisted of 25 specialists, 65 post graduate students and 60
general dentists who work in Bangalore. An online questionnaire was sent to the dentists in October 2021. The
questionnaire comprised of three sections: Section A comprised of socio-demographic and professional details
of the subjects, Section B comprised of questions representing knowledge and awareness regarding COVID-19,
Section C comprised of questions about working condition and practices adopted after the outbreak of the
infection.
RESULTS: Statistically there was no significant difference (p-0.201) of mean knowledge scores between all three
groups of participants. Among 150 participants 85% used PPE measures. Almost two-third of the participants
agreed that the number of patients in waiting area and the time they spend there should be minimized (GD73.3%, PG-84.6%, Specialists-68%)
CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study showed that dentists had fair knowledge regarding some vital
aspects of COVID-19 and also they have incorporated extra precautionary measures in their practice. National
and international guidelines should be sent by the regional and national dental associations to all registered
dentists during any crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, to make sure that dentists are well informed and
aware of best practices and recommended disease management approaches.