European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: The risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission cannot be eliminated during aerosol-generating dental procedures in most dental settings. The present study was conducted to assess impact of COVID- 19 on utilization of dental services.
Materials & Methods: 485 patients who obtained dental treatment before and during COVID- 19 period were enrolled. Type of complaints for which patients visited dental offices was recorded.
Results: Out of 485, males were 310 and females were 175. During pre- COVID period, 170 patients <18 years and 210 above 18 years visited dental office while during COVID period, 40 below 18 years and 65 above 18 years reported to dental clinics. The common complaints were periapical seen in 120 and 45, cellulitis in 80 and 30, cellulitis in 70 and 10 and trauma in 110 and 20 in pre- COVID and during COVID period. The difference found to be significant (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: COVID- 19 had strong impact on utilization of dental services among patients.