The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on US orthodontic practices in 2020

Motevasel, Hengameh; Helms, Lana R.; Eckert, George J.; Stewart, Kelton T.; Albright, David A.

Introduction This study aimed to investigate the immediate impact and longer-term implications that the SARS-CoV-2 virus has had on the orthodontic practices in the United States in 2020. Methods A 35-item survey was developed and validated to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the orthodontic profession. The survey contained five domains including respondent demographic information, COVID-19 information acquisition, practice ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, and patient management strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. This voluntary survey acquired responses from active orthodontists in the U.S. Associations of demographic and practice characteristics with items related to COVID-19 were assessed using chi-square tests, with a 5% significance level. Results The survey was disseminated to 5,694 individuals and 507 complete surveys were obtained (response rate of 8.9%). Respondents indicated that they obtained the most useful information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic through professional associations and internet/online news resources. However, 30% of the orthodontists believed information regarding personal financial guidelines was lacking. Most respondents identified delayed treatment progress and temporary staff layoffs as the two most negative ramifications of mandated office closures. Approximately 93% of practices applied for and utilized some sort of stimulus funding offered through the CARES Act. Respondents indicated that the COVID-19 related office closures resulted in an average of 50% decrease in net revenue. Conclusions The survey found that the COVID-19 pandemic had a broad and significant impact on patient care and financial aspects of US orthodontic practices in 2020. Though generally accepting of the federal and state recommendations, respondents appeared to desire more guidance during the early phase of the pandemic.