IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON DENTAL PRACTICE AND PRACTITIONERS IN INDIA – A CROSS SECTIONAL ONLINE SURVEY

*Dr. Abinaya M., Dr. Muthukaruppaiah Ramalingam, Dr. Umesh Kemparaj, Dr. Sangeeta Chavan and Dr. Palanivel Pandian Ramasubramaniya

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Corona virus disease is an ongoing global pandemic influencing every aspect of life. Healthcare professionals are at a higher risk of getting infected, especially dentists, as they work in close proximity to patient’s mouth. This pandemic has put enormous pressure on both private dental practitioners and the already-struggling public oral health care system. Therefore, the aim of the survey is to determine the impact of COVID-19 in dental practice. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted among 247 dental practitioners using Google forms. Results: The results showed that 192 respondents were continuing to practice whereas the rest suspended practice due to fear and other reasons. They admitted difficulties in getting materials, high rate of negative influences in professional activity, and fear for professional future. It was reported that governmental aids could help in current situation. Conclusion: Dentists are heavily impacted by the current crisis.

Keywords: COVID-19, Dental Practice, India, Online survey.