Assessment of dentists' awareness and knowledge levels on the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Abstract

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is the most recent infectious disease that is spreading rapidly throughout the world. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and awareness levels of dentists on COVID-19. This survey study, consisting of 37 questions, was sent to dentists via an online link in the first two weeks of April 2020. The questionnaire consisted of questions related to the knowledge level of dentists on COVID-19 during the pandemic period. The knowledge level of dentists was assessed with a 24-point scoring, consisting of correct answers. A Chi-square test was used to compare qualitative data (p < 0.05). A total of 267 dentists participated in this study, of which 51.7% were aged under 30 years, and 67% were women. The participants' knowledge level means score was 19.03 ± 3.15. According to these results, 231 were determined (86.5%) as high knowledgeable. Positive associations between increased knowledge level and factors such as being a woman, working in a university hospital, and being informed outside the institution were determined. The knowledge level of the dentists working in Istanbul about the COVID-19 pandemic is quite high.