Evaluation of Dental Practices Changes During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil

Abstract

Dentists are healthcare professionals who are at high risk of infection and transmission of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the changes in clinical practice made by Brazilian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. From June 22 to July 13, 2020, an online questionnaire was sent to dentists using Google Forms. After providing consent, 1,178 dentists answered questions regarding their knowledge and clinical experiences related to COVID-19. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fisher’s exact, or Kruskal–Wallis tests, with a significance level of 5%. Brazilian dentists significantly changed their routine dental practices. Biosafety measures were added in their offices by 98% of the dentists, increasing operating costs for 88.3% of dentists. Greater discomfort due to the increase in personal protection equipment (PPE) worn during the pandemic was reported by 58.6%. Furthermore, 84.2% reduced heir hours of service. It was found that the dentists decreased their workload, used additional PPE, and took additional biosafety measures.