Multifaceted Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Practice: American Dental Professionals Prepared and Ready During Unprecedented Challenges

Bsoul, Enas A.; Challa, Suman N.; Loomer, Peter M.

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the multifaceted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental practices and their readiness to resume dental practice during arduous circumstances. Methods An observational survey study approved by Institutional Review Board was distributed to dental practitioners and their office staff using Qualtrics software. The survey was completed anonymously. Data were analyzed using R statistical computing software, Chi-Square test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results Nearly all participants (98%) felt prepared to resume dental practice and were confident of the safety precautions (96%). Only 21% of dentists felt COVID pandemic changed their dental treatment protocols, with at least two-thirds agreed that precautions would adversely influence their efficiency. Although majority were satisfied with the resources their dental practice provided for support during the pandemic (95%), majority were concerned about the impact on their general health and safety (77%) and to their dental practice (90%), found working during the pandemic difficult (∼60%), and agreed there are challenges and long-term impacts on the dental profession (>75%). Conclusions Dental professionals, although profoundly impacted by COVID-19 pandemic and at high risk of COVID-19 infection, were very confidently prepared to resume dental practice during most challenging circumstances. Practical Implications. The pandemic has significantly impacted dental practitioners; thus, the need to formulate psychological interventions and safety precautions to mitigate its impact. Further research should evaluate long-term effects on dentistry and oral health, and interceptive measures for better communications and programming around future challenges.