COVID-19 Impact on the Dental Care System
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on all aspects of the oral health care system. Patients, dental providers, educators, and regulators are being asked to rapidly adjust to the COVID-19 crisis with almost no roadmap.
Organizations, associations, and government agencies are all working on responses to the problem in their respective areas of expertise yet often with little awareness of concurrent changes in interrelated systems.
We are dedicated to sharing information on immediate impact to the dental care system in the following 4 domains:
Care Delivery
- Immediate impact of closures on the dental delivery system across multiple sectors (private practice, dental service organizations [DSOs], safety net, community-based)
- Strategies being used to reopen and short-term impact on dental providers, their practices, and patients
- Forecasts for changes which may have longer term impact on care delivery, such as widespread use of telehealth and emphasis on minimally invasive dentistry
- Differential impact on safety net services, access, and workforce
151 Results
January 9, 2022
Trends in Dental Insurance Claims in the United States Before and During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in 2020
Published in the Journal of Public Health Dentistry, this article reports trends in claims from private dental practices in the United States during 2019 and 2020. Claims from 3.8 million patients, which constituted the 5% random sample used for analysis, show that large decreases in treatment occurred from mid-March through the end of April 2020. Even when treatment numbers increased, the level in June 2020 was still low in comparison to June 2019.
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December 9, 2021
Scenario V: Back to the Future: An Optimal Scenario for Pandemic 2026 Based on Lessons From COVID-19
Published in the Journal of Dental Education, this paper discusses a future scenario utilizing lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. During a (hypothetical) pandemic in 2026, dentists and dental students would be more prepared as front line workers to meet the nation’s healthcare needs.
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December 4, 2021
Dental Care Utilization Among Children Aged 1–17 Years: United States, 2019 and 2020
This data brief uses data from the 2019-2020 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) to describe changes in the prevalence of dental examinations or cleanings among children aged 1-17 years. This data refers to preventive dental care during this period. The survey conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics indicates that between 2019-2020 the percentage of children who had a dental examination or cleaning in the prior 12 months had decreased among children living in families with lower incomes. When assessing trends by region, in 2020, the percentage of children receiving dental examinations or cleanings was highest in the West followed by the Midwest, Northeast, and South.
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November 28, 2021
Revealing Distress and Perceived Stress Among Dentists at the Outset of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Factor Analytic Study
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this study explores emotions and attitudes, as well as socio-demographic, dental, and COVID-related factors that are associated with the emergence of perceived stress and psychological distress that have been experienced by dentists in Hungary during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that the fear of aerosol propagation and insecurities of financial status increased the likelihood of perceived stress and distress, while years in dental practice and age seemed to be protective factors.
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November 23, 2021
‘You Had to Do Something’: Prescribing Antibiotics in Scotland During the COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions and Remobilization
Published in the British Dental Journal, this article discusses the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and remobilization on dental antibiotic prescriptions and explores dentists’ intentions and attitudes towards antibiotic prescribing. Results show that antibiotic prescribing rose by 49% following the suspension of routine dental care, and since the remobilization of NHS dental care, antibiotic prescribing continues to be higher than pre-pandemic levels.
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November 22, 2021
Can Silver Diamine Fluoride Be an Alternative to Aerosol-based Dentistry During the COVID Scenario? A Retrospective Analysis
Published in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, this study explores utilizing silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as an alternative measure to aerosol during the COVID-19 era when routine elective dental procedures were prohibited. Results show that of 2,459 carious molars treated (in 1,072 patients), complete relief in sensitivity/pain on stimulation was reported in 96.8% of teeth, and mild sensitivity/pain was reported in 3.17% of treated teeth. Researchers concluded that SDF application can be carried out as a non-aerosol-generating procedure for caries management.
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November 18, 2021
A Retrospective Study of Oral Emergency Services During COVID-19
Published in the International Dental Journal, this study examines changes in the number of patient visits and types of services in an oral emergency department from the beginning to the control stage of the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing. Results show that there was an inverse relationship between daily oral emergency visits and daily confirmed COVID-19 cases.
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November 15, 2021
Dental Faculty Well-being Amid COVID-19 in Fall 2020: A Multi-site Measure of Burnout, Loneliness, and Resilience
Published in the Journal of Dental Education, this study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental school faculty’s self-reported burnout, loneliness, and resilience. Results indicate that personal and work-related burnout decreased with increasing age. Work-related burnout was significantly higher among full-time faculty, females, and those living alone. Researchers concluded that while self-reported burnout and resilience did not show a significant increase during the pandemic, the rates of burnout and loneliness were higher than the public.
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November 13, 2021
Multifaceted Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Practice: American Dental Care Professionals Prepared and Ready During Unprecedented Challenges
Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, this study evaluates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental practices and their readiness to resume dental practice. While almost all participants felt prepared to resume dental practice and were confident of safety precautions their practice provided to protect them, more than two-thirds reported that the precautions would influence their efficiency adversely.
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November 12, 2021
Influencing Factors Associated With Mental Health Outcomes Among Dental Medical Staff in Emergency Exposed to Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Multicenter Cross-sectional Study in China
Published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, this study investigates the prevalence and influencing factors of anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and acute stress disorder among dental medical staff in emergency situations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that the prevalence of depression, anxiety, perceived pressure, and acute stress disorder among the frontline dental medical staff were 46.4%, 36.3%, 65.2%, and 1.1%, respectively. Individuals with a past medical history reported experiencing more anxiety, depression, and perceived stress than those without. Furthermore, individuals with lower levels of education showed higher levels of anxiety.
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November 10, 2021
Australian Dentists’ Knowledge, Preparedness, and Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in Infection, Disease & Health, this article examines dentists’ knowledge, preparedness, and experiences of managing COVID-19 in Australia. Results indicate that most dentists (87.6%) felt prepared to manage COVID-19 in the future, although 66% reported not receiving training or certification in the use of PPE. Researchers concluded that comprehensive training and detailed guidelines were fundamental for successful patient management during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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November 6, 2021
Pandemics Past, Present, and Future: Their Impact on Oral Health Care
Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, researchers reviewed the history of pandemics, the reasons for their emergence, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the possible impact on dentistry during the post-pandemic period. Researchers concluded the importance of dental community adopting modified infection control measures, teledentistry, and point-of-care diagnostics among other measures.
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October 25, 2021
Experiences of Safety-net Practice Clinicians Participating in the National Health Service Corps During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in Public Health Reports, this study characterizes the experiences of National Health Services Corps (NHSC) participants in 20 states through the COVID-19 pandemic’s first 9 months. Over three-quarters of NHSC clinicians surveyed scored at-risk levels for their well-being. Compared to primary care and behavioral health clinicians, dental clinicians more often had been furloughed and had their practices close temporarily. Researchers concluded that national programs and policies should build a culture within safety-net practices to support clinicians and their staff.
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October 25, 2021
Comparing Health Care Use and Costs Among New Medicaid Enrollees Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in BMC Health Services Research, this article characterizes health care use and costs among new Medicaid enrollees before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that new Medicaid enrollees during the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to have an ED visit, nonemergent ED visit, potentially avoidable hospitalization, primary care visit, or dental visit. New Medicaid enrollees during the COVID-19 pandemic used significantly less care than new enrollees pre-COVID-19.
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October 21, 2021
Telemedicine Among Oral Medicine Practitioners During COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Future Impact on the Specialty
Published in Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, this study identifies the utilization of tele-medicine among oral medicine practitioners in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic and tele-medicine’s future impacts, potential challenges, and barriers hindering implementation. Researchers concluded that telemedicine could be a useful adjunct for oral medicine practice, especially for remote diagnosis, consultation, referral, training, and education. Furthermore, researchers identified the urgent need to increase awareness and education on how to utilize and practice tele-medicine technologies among staff to maximize efficiency.
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October 6, 2021
Endodontics Specialists’ Practice During the Initial Outbreak of COVID-19
Published in the Journal of Endodontics, this study analyzes and compares the characteristics of patients who visited 2 private endodontics offices from March 16 to May 31, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. While the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with fewer visits for patients older in age, there were a higher number of non-surgical root canal treatments and apicoectomies.
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September 29, 2021
Older Seniors During the COVID-19 Pandemic—Social Support and Oral Health-related Quality of Life
Published in Healthcare, this study investigates the social support and oral health-related quality of life of older seniors in Leipzig, Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that when pandemic restrictions minimize access to dental treatment, health programs should offer more individual options for dental/medical appointments.
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September 29, 2021
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the University of British Columbia Geriatric Dentistry Program: Clinical Education and Service
Published in Gerodontology, this article describes the impact of the pandemic on the clinical education and service of the University of British Columbia Geriatric Dentistry Program which provides care to long-term care residents. Results from this study indicate that that the COVID-19 pandemic and public health restrictions had a negative impact on the clinical service and productivity of the Geriatric Dentistry Program in 2020 relative to 2019.
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September 17, 2021
Knowledge, Perception, and Experience of Dentists About Teledentistry
Published in the International Dental Journal, this study evaluates the level of knowledge, perception, and experience of teledentistry amongst Brazilian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study demonstrated barriers to implementation of teledentistry among Brazilian dentists.
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August 30, 2021
Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission Following Exposure During Dental Treatment – A National Cohort Study
This study assesses SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk for dental staff members and patients following exposure in dental clinics during the second wave of the pandemic in Israel. Published in the Journal of Dentistry, results showed that following 962 reported exposures of dental staff members to 508 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, 7 dental staff members were SARS-CoV-2 positive with a 0.7% cumulative transmission rate, indicating the low transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in dental settings. Results suggest that routine dental care could be safely provided during the pandemic.
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August 27, 2021
The New Normalcy in Dentistry After the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Italian Cross-sectional Survey
Published in Dentistry Journal, this study explores procedures that were adopted in the second phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and dentists’ expectations and concerns about returning to normalcy. Results show that Italian health professionals demonstrated their ability to reorganize their practices and return to normalcy, by adopting safe and high-quality precautions to provide safe care to patients.
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August 27, 2021
A Further Plot Twist: Will ‘Long COVID’ Have an Impact on Dentistry and the Dental Workforce?
Published in the British Dental Journal, this article discusses the impact that “long COVID” will have on the provision of dentistry. In addition to exploring the obstacles that will be faced due to long COVID, the authors discuss solutions, including the importance of further research of the effect long COVID will have on dentistry.
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August 26, 2021
COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Dentists in Latin America’s Epicenter: São-Paulo, Brazil
Published in PLOS ONE, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentists in the state. In addition to expected reduced income, approximately 83% reported not having received any specific training to control transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Researchers concluded that this study would help dentists and other health professionals to better understand the consequences of diseases in dental settings and strengthen emergency preparedness throughout the dental health care system.
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August 23, 2021
Advancing Access to Oral Health Care Amidst COVID-19 Recovery
This article discusses key opportunities to increase access to oral health care, as described by a group of Medicaid and public health state leaders that aimed to identify strategies and considerations for increasing access to oral health services during the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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August 21, 2021
The Impact of COVID-19 on Access to Dental Care for People with Disabilities: A Global Survey During the COVID-19 First Wave Lockdown
Published in Medicina Oral,
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August 15, 2021
Loss of Insurance Leads to Hard Decisions for Many Patients
Published by CareQuest Institute of Oral Health, this research brief discusses findings from a national survey of dental providers participating in Medicaid dental plans, which provides more evidence that the pandemic is contributing to a coming surge in oral disease. Forty-six percent of dental providers saw an increase in the number of patients who reported having lost their commercial dental insurance because of job loss related to the pandemic.
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August 15, 2021
Teledentistry Use Beyond the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted health inequities and increased awareness of technologies that can help address those inequities. Teledentistry is one such technology that has increased access to care and has improved health outcomes. Published by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, this visual report explores 4 reasons why teledentistry will continue to be used beyond the pandemic.
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August 14, 2021
COVID-19 Impact, Knowledge, and Preparedness Among Dental Hygienists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, this study investigates the impact of COVID-19 on dental hygiene professionals practicing in Saudi Arabia and measures their knowledge and preparedness to provide care during the pandemic. Researchers concluded that knowledgeable dental hygienists were significantly more prepared to treat patients during the pandemic and that stress positively influenced knowledge acquisition.
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August 5, 2021
Willingness and Ability of Oral Health Care Workers to Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, this study assesses oral health care workers’ ability and willingness to work during the COVID-19 pandemic and what factors affected that ability and willingness. Results indicate that of the study participants, 53% of dentists, 33% of dental hygienists, 29% of dental assistants, and 48% of nonclinical staff members would be able to work a normal shift during the pandemic, and even fewer would be willing to work a normal shift. Barriers included caring for family, a second job, and personal obligations.
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August 4, 2021
Dentists’ Experiences and Dental Care in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights From Nova Scotia, Canada
Published in The Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, this article describes dental care provision and the perceptions of dentists in Nova Scotia, Canada, during one week of the COVID-19 pandemic, shortly after the closures of non-emergency, in-person care. While most respondents remained engaged in non-in-person dental care using various care delivery modalities, they expressed concern about their health and that of their staff and patients, and the future of their practices.
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July 25, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Reasons for or Against Adherence Among Dentists
In this study, researchers evaluate intentions to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in a population of Italian dentists and identify factors associated with that intention. Published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, results from this study indicate that more than 82% of the participating dentists declared their intention to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The main reason for supporting vaccination was to protect their family and friends and the main reason for opposing the vaccination was lack of information.
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July 17, 2021
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Global Effects on Dental Practice. An International Survey
In this study, researchers conducted a global survey (52,491 respondents) to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak among dental professionals in different countries worldwide. Researchers concluded that oral health service provision was not significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, although access to routine care was reduced by temporary lockdowns. Furthermore, reported rates of COVID-19 in dental professionals were not significantly different to those reported in the general population in each country.
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July 3, 2021
Protective Measures Against COVID-19: Dental Practice and Infection Control
This Healthcare review provides dental practitioners with essential information regarding the spread of SARS-CoV-2 virus and guidelines and protocols to help mitigate against COVID-19 transmissions in dental facilities.
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July 2, 2021
Dental Care During COVID-19 Pandemic: Follow-up Survey of Experts’ Opinion
In this study, researchers collected updated opinions of European experts regarding infection control and prevention in dentistry during the second wave of the pandemic. Researchers also identify how expert opinions changed as new scientific evidence arose since the first wave of the pandemic. Experts concluded that transmission risk has been scored lower when comparing to the first wave but assumed there was still high risk in aerosol generating procedures.
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July 2, 2021
Evaluation of the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dentistry
Published in Clinical and Experimental Dental Research, this study evaluates dentists’ working conditions, policies implemented for dentistry during the pandemic, and the effects of working in private and government practices. Researchers describe the importance of increasing dentists’ representation in the management and policy-making process during future pandemics, thereby eliminating uncertainty and dissatisfaction of oral health care providers.
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July 1, 2021
Testing for COVID-19 in Dental Offices: Mechanism of Action, Application, and Interpretation of Laboratory and Point-of-care Screening Tests
In this study researchers share the latest available laboratory methods for COVID-19 screening and diagnosis and discuss options available for use at dental offices. Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, this article concluded that dentists need to be familiar with point-of-care testing options for COVID-19, as such tests may enhance safe delivery of dental care at practices.
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June 25, 2021
Role of Teledentistry in Paediatric Dentistry
Published in the British Dental Journal, this study evaluates use of teledentistry within Newcastle Dental Hospital’s pediatric dentistry New Patient Service. Researchers found that by implementing a telephone consultation as the first point of contact, the number of face-to-face appointments was reduced by over one-third. Teledentistry can be used not only during the current COVID-19 pandemic, but beyond in the post-COVID world to provide effective and efficient care.
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June 19, 2021
The ‘New Normal’ in Post–COVID-19 Pediatric Dental Practice
Published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, this study highlights the changing perceptions of pediatric dental practice as the ‘new normal’ in the post-COVID-19 era. The article concludes that after easing of global restrictions for slowing down the transmission of COVID-19, there may be changes to pediatric dentistry with more emphasis being given to prevention.
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June 15, 2021
Differential Psychological Factors Associated With Unnecessary Dental Avoidance and Attendance Behavior During the Early COVID-19 Epidemic
Published in Frontiers in Psychology, this study assesses the psychological factors belonging to multiple domains that influence the attendance behavior of dental patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper concludes that the adoption of multidisciplinary efforts involving dental and medical professionals as well as psychologists are warranted, and to promote dental attendance behaviors compatible with dental treatments needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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June 8, 2021
Dental Health Care Providers’ Concerns, Perceived Impact, and Preparedness During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia
This study evaluates Dental Health Care Providers (DHCPs) in Saudi Arabia on COVID-19 related concerns, perceived impacts, and their preparedness. Published in PeerJ, researchers concluded that the majority of DHCPs felt concerned about their risk of exposure and falling ill from infection and infecting friends/family. Measures to improve protection for DHCPs, minimizing psychological implications, and potential social stigmatization should be identified during the planning phase at the onset of future pandemics.
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June 5, 2021
COVID-19 in Dental Settings: Novel Risk Assessment Approach
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this review discusses a novel COVID-19 risk measurement approach which can be used to improve the standards of safety of dental care delivery. Recommendations for improving safety standards in dental care delivery include the use of teledentistry, safety measures for waiting areas, and avoiding aerosol-generating procedures.
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June 3, 2021
A Review of Prolonged Post-COVID-19 Symptoms and Their Implications on Dental Management
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this narrative review describes prolonged COVID-19 symptoms in recovered patients and the implications of prolonged COVID-19 symptoms during dental management. Researchers conclude that long-haul COVID-19 symptoms need to be considered in the provision of dental treatment to patients who have recovered from COVID-19.
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June 3, 2021
Proposal for Tier-based Resumption of Dental Practice Determined by COVID-19 Rate, Testing, and COVID-19 Vaccination: A Narrative Perspective
This article published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine discusses an initial proposal for dental services reinstallation that is applicable in various care settings. The universal 3-tier system of dental services resumption described is determined by regional COVID-19 rates, testing accessibility, and vaccination rollout. Its implementation can be used as a part of risk assessment during the recovery of the dental care sector.
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June 3, 2021
Perceived Stress in Dentists and Dental Students of Latin America and the Caribbean During the Mandatory Social Isolation Measures for the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study
This study aims to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perceived stress of a sample of dentists and dental students from Latin America and the Caribbean. Results indicate that the pandemic has influenced the personal, social, labor, and everyday life of dental staff and has affected the mental health of this population, indicating the importance of public health policies, strategies, and mental health surveillance systems for this population.
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June 1, 2021
COVID-19 Among Dentists in the United States: A 6-Month Longitudinal Report of Accumulative Prevalence and Incidence
Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, this study determines the prevalence and incidence rates of COVID-19 among dentists. Over the 6-month study period, the incidence rates ranged from 0.2% through 1.1% each month, and the cumulative prevalence rate was 2.6%. Researchers concluded that the low rates of cumulative prevalence of COVID-19 is indicative of the high level of adherence to enhanced infection control procedures.
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May 27, 2021
Patient and Clinician Satisfaction With Video Consultations in Dentistry – Part One: Patient Satisfaction
Published in the British Dental Journal, this paper describes a study that assessed patient and clinician satisfaction with the “Attend Anywhere” video consultation used by the orthodontic team at Croydon University Hospital. Results indicate that over 90% of patients strongly agreed or agreed with all the satisfaction statements demonstrating a high level of patient satisfaction.
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May 21, 2021
Remote Management of Dental Problems in Children During and Post the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak: A Teledentistry Approach
Published in Dental and Medical Problems, this review outlines the use of teledentistry in managing children’s dental programs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers concluded that teledentistry is a feasible method to overcome challenges presented because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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May 19, 2021
The Pandemic Was Bad for Our Teeth. Will It Change Oral Health Forever?
Published in The New York Times magazine, this article discusses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the oral health status of Americans. Among topics discussed are policies that could help improve access to care, recognizing the need to reduce risk by limiting aerosols, and prioritizing low-cost preventive services.
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May 11, 2021
One Year Into the COVID-19 Pandemic – Temporomandibular Disorders and Bruxism: What We Have Learned and What We Can Do to Improve Our Manner of Treatment
The COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown aimed to mitigate the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 impacted routine dental service delivery. This article published in Dental and Medical Problems reviews the existing literature on Temporomandibular disorders, bruxism, and orofacial pain during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper discusses how remote first aid for patients can be administered through teledentistry to ensure access to care.
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May 7, 2021
Dental Practice Closure During the First Wave of COVID-19 and Associated Professional, Practice, and Structural Determinants: a Multi-Country Survey
This research article published in BMC Oral Health assesses the extent of dental practice closure as reported by dentists from different countries during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also assesses whether closures differed between private and non-private sectors. Participating dentists reported practice closure was higher in the private sector than non-private sector. Greater pandemic-related fears, dentists in academia, and the relatively fewer number of hospital beds at the country-level also resulted in higher practice closures.
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May 3, 2021
Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dental Health Personnel in Norway
Published in BMC Health Services Research, this study explores the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among dental staff in Norway in relation to their background characteristics, work situation, and preparedness. Results from the study indicate that a safe working environment and adequate infection control measures are associated with less fear of infection and feeling of instability.
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May 1, 2021
Challenges in Implementing School-Based Oral Health Programs: Short- and Long-term Impact of COVID-19
This research brief, published by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors, discusses a survey of state and territorial dental directors that aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the capacity of state oral health programs in implementing school-based oral health programs.
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April 30, 2021
Orthodontic Treatment Pause During COVID-19 Outbreak: Are We Overlooking Potential Harms to Our Patients and Their Treatment Outcomes?
Published in the Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics, this article discusses the impact of a pause of orthodontic treatment on patients and the overall success of their treatments. The paper presents actions that need to be taken by orthodontists to allow recalling patients to prevent treatment failure and to avoid medico-legal consequences.
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April 29, 2021
Attitudes and Predictive Factors of Psychological Distress and Occupational Burnout Among Dentists During COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey
This paper discusses a study that evaluated factors affecting the ability and willingness of dentists to work during the COVID-19 pandemic and their effect on occupational burnout. Published in Current Psychology, this paper concluded that approximately 20% of participating dentists in Turkey were experiencing occupational burnout.
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April 27, 2021
Reopening Oral Health Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic Through a Knowledge Exchange Coalition
Published in JDR Clinical & Translational Research, this paper discusses a knowledge exchange coalition (representing government, academics, hospitals, oral health professions, and regulators) that developed return-to-work guidelines in preparation for a phased reopening. This paper investigates the effectiveness of a multi-stakeholder coalition in the establishment and communication of comprehensive guidelines.
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April 21, 2021
Changing Trends in the Outpatient Dental Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Tertiary Care Hospital
This study analyzes patterns of outpatient dental visits during the pandemic period compared to that of the pre-pandemic period in a tertiary care hospital in India. Published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, researchers concluded there was a notable change in outpatient trends of dental visits during the COVID-19 pandemic because of emergency dental services being utilized at a higher rate during the pandemic period.
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April 12, 2021
Pan-Dent-Emic: Safety Considerations for Dental Surgery in the Era of COVID-19
Published in Patient Safety in Surgery, this article highlights the clinical presentation of COVID-19 and discusses a summary of measures to prevent infection and nosocomial spread of infection in dental settings. Measures discussed include triage, screening, dental office preparation, and post-treatment protocol, all aimed at preventing the spread of the disease in a health care setting.
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April 8, 2021
Occupational Health Practices Among Dental Care Professionals Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In this cross-sectional study, researchers assess the knowledge, attitudes, occupational health practices, PPE usage, and mental stressors among dental care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers concluded that COVID-19 may contribute to developing psychological stress and the disruption of work-life balance among dental professionals.
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April 6, 2021
Increased COVID-19 Vaccination Hesitancy and Health Awareness Amid COVID-19 Vaccinations Programs in Israel
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this study examines the attitudes regarding vaccination and awareness of health behaviors among adult Israeli populations and among Israeli dentists and dental hygienists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that in all groups, attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines were more negative when compared to other vaccines, with dental hygienists demonstrating significant negative attitudes compared to dentists.
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April 6, 2021
Prevalence of Corona‐associated Anxiety and Mental Health Disorder Among Dentists During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
This study investigates the prevalence and severity of corona-associated anxiety and mental health challenges among Iranian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Published in Neuropsychopharmacology Reports, results from participating dentists indicate a moderate prevalence of corona-associated anxiety and mental disorders in dentists. The study concluded how several interventions, such as psychological workshops and trainings were being conducted to aid dentists in their return to work.
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April 3, 2021
Changes in the Characteristics of Dental Emergencies Under the Influence of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Retrospective Study
Understanding the characteristics of dental emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic is of significance for dental emergency centers, to allow for optimized treatment procedures, optimized staffing, and efficient and effective allocation of resources for emergency management. Published in BMC Oral Health, this retrospective study explores the characteristics of dental emergencies in a population of patients presenting to a dental emergency service in Sichuan, China.
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April 1, 2021
Novel COVID-19 Intersections With Dentistry: Approaches to Protection
Published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry, this review investigates how COVID-19 intersects with dentistry. Researchers in Brazil concluded that dental care should be performed under stringent disease preventive measures and described how postponing elective dental treatment may be a strategic disease control procedure at this stage.
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March 31, 2021
Are Individuals With Orofacial Pain More Prone to Psychological Distress During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
This article compares the psychological status of the general population with those with orofacial pain (OFP) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Published in Dental and Medical Problems, results from this study concluded that patients with orofacial pain demonstrated higher psychological distress, depressive symptoms, and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, which illustrate the importance of providing psychological interventions to this priority population.
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March 30, 2021
Influence of COVID-19 Pandemic on Paediatric Dental Attendance
This retrospective study evaluates the effect of COVID-19 on pediatric dental attendance. Published in Clinical Oral Investigations, results from this study indicated a significant reduction in aggregated emergency/non-emergency visits during the pandemic period. Furthermore, non-emergency routine dental visits also exhibited a decline. The study concluded that suspension of routine dental care may result in an increase in treatment demand during the post-pandemic period.
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March 29, 2021
SARS-CoV-2 Positivity in Asymptomatic-screened Dental Patients
This study aimed to determine SARS-CoV-2 infection in asymptomatic dental patients to inform community surveillance and to understand risks in dental settings. Thirty-one dental care centers across Scotland participated in this study, and over a 13-week period (August 3, 2020-October 31, 2020), 4,032 patients were tested. Results indicate of those tested, 22 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 reflecting the community prevalence at the time. Results indicate the importance of ongoing infection prevention and control measures.
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March 25, 2021
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Spectrum of Performed Dental Procedures
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this article assesses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the spectrum of performed dental services, with emphasis on the proportion of conservative and surgical procedures. Results indicate the number of conservative procedures significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the number of surgical procedures increased.
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March 23, 2021
Dentists’ Working Conditions During the First COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown: An Online Survey
This article published in Healthcare describes a study which aimed to investigate the operating conditions of dentists in central Europe during the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. Responses from the 1,731 survey participants indicate heterogenous working conditions as a result of a lack of guidelines.
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March 19, 2021
Dental Workload Reduction During First SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 Lockdown in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this observational cross-sectional study analyzes the weekly workload reduction of German dentists during the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that during the lockdown, weekly workload was reduced in 93% of study participants. Furthermore, during the first lockdown, dentists in Germany drastically reduced their practice activity in both rural and urban areas.
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March 18, 2021
Retrospective Study on the Effectiveness of a Prevention Strategy in a Dental Hospital During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in Clinical Oral Investigations, this paper evaluates the effectiveness of a prevention strategy against the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection among dental professionals over the first lockdown and first reopening period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data concluded that while the total number of hospital visits declined during that period, the total number of emergency visits increased. Furthermore, the prevention strategy implemented was successful in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection spread among dental professionals in the hospital.
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March 17, 2021
Effect of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Behavioral and Psychosocial Factors Related to Oral Health in Adolescents: A Cohort Study
This paper evaluates the psychosocial and behavioral changes related to oral health in adolescents immediately before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, it concluded that psychosocial and behavioral factors showed significant changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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March 16, 2021
Impact of Lockdown on Children’s Lifestyle and Their Collaboration During Dental Sessions
Published in the European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, this paper analyzes the lifestyle of Italian families during the lockdown and evaluates its impact on the collaboration of children with pediatric dentists. The paper concluded that changes in family routines and increased presence at home were associated with improved collaboration of children during dental sessions.
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March 13, 2021
Rapid Deployment of an Algorithm to Triage Dental Emergencies During COVID-19 Pandemic
This paper discusses the development of an algorithm by Columbia University College of Dental Medicine to triage dental emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that this screening tool met its goals of optimizing which patients were seen in the emergency dental clinic in contrast to patients who did not require urgent care. The paper concludes that it may be beneficial to consider a screening algorithm as a model for screening dental emergencies in the future.
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March 9, 2021
Trends in Visits to Dental Offices During the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic had adversely impacted the delivery of dental care. This paper published in the Journal of the American Dental Association discusses a study that aimed to quantify changes in dental visits in 2020 compared to 2019. Results indicate that weekly visits to dental offices in the US declined during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though the rates in weekly visits rebounded by June 2020, as of August 2020 rates remain approximately 20% lower than the prior year.
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March 2, 2021
What is the Rate of COVID-19 Infection in a Population Seeking Oral Health Care?
In this study, researchers identify the rate of COVID-19 positivity among patients seeking oral health care and compare this rate with the citywide (Chicago, Illinois) positivity rate, number of tests performed, and number of positive cases. Researchers conclude that the rate of COVID-19 in a population seeking oral health care reflects the community positivity rate.
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March 2, 2021
The Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dentists in Germany
In this article, researchers investigate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentists in Germany. Published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, findings from the 732 participating dentists indicate being female, working at a dental practice, and considering the COVID-19 pandemic a financial hazard are significant factors which cause distress.
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March 1, 2021
A Coming Surge in Oral Health Treatment Needs
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated barriers to oral health care access. This report published by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health strongly suggests the health system could see a significant spike in the need to treat oral disease because of unmet needs during the pandemic. The report discusses the importance of expanding dental coverage to address longstanding barriers to care and identifies teledentistry as an option to promote preventive care.
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February 24, 2021
Systemic Management of Pandemic Risks in Dental Practice: A Consolidated Framework for COVID-19 Control in Dentistry
This article published in Frontiers in Medicine discusses a consolidated framework for COVID-19 control in dentistry. A comparative analysis of guidance issued for managing COVID-19 was conducted which included guidance from OSHA and the CDC. The analysis revealed 5 areas of pandemic control comprising of (1) planning and protocols, (2) patient screening, (3) preparation of facilities, (4) PPE and infection control, and (5) procedures and aerosol control: providing an opportunity to simplify decision making for clinical providers.
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February 23, 2021
COVID-19: The Dentists’ Perceived Impact on the Dental Practice
This study published in the European Journal of Dentistry, assesses dentists’ knowledge of the risks from the COVID-19 infection, and how they perceive its impacts their practice. The majority of participating dentists were aware of the need for changes in their dental practice in reference to specific sterilization processes, testing patients, asking patients to not be accompanied, and reducing the number of visits per day.
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February 19, 2021
Dental Care in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review
This paper published in Medical Sciences reviews the guidelines for dental treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic with the goal of improving the management of dental patients. The review concluded that application of teledentistry, emphasis on infection control measures, and the development of emergency dental care centers are pragmatic ways to maintain oral health among the public.
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February 16, 2021
An Experience of Public Dental Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Reflection and Analysis
This article, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, analyzes the systems and organizational level measures that were implemented in dental care in Hungary during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper concludes that investment in development of technology to improve access to care and environmental changes should be considered a long-term commitment to modernize dental care.
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February 15, 2021
Knowledge and Awareness on Novel Coronavirus Spread Among Dental Fraternities in Visakhapatnam, India: A Questionnaire-based Survey
As essential healthcare workers, dentists have a responsibility to stay abreast of the scientific knowledge and awareness on COVID-19 and related infection control measures. This study published in the Journal of Education and Health Promotion assesses the knowledge and awareness of COVID-19 disease and infection control practices among dentists in Visakhapatnam, India. Findings from this study showed the need to implement periodic educational interventions and training programs on infection control practices among dentists.
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February 11, 2021
How Dentists Face the COVID-19 in Mexico: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this article discusses what changes dentists from the Mexican Republic made to their dental practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results concluded that dentists have proper knowledge of COVID-19 diagnostic methods, preventive measures, and effective processes for dental office disinfection.
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February 11, 2021
Prevalence and Risk Indicators of First-wave COVID-19 Among Oral Health-care Workers: A French Epidemiological Survey
This study published in PLOS One describes a study that aimed to assess the prevalence and risk indicators of first-wave COVID-19 in a population of oral health care workers representing approximately 10% of French oral health care workers. While oral health care professionals were not at a higher risk of COVID-19 than the general population, higher risk indicators are likely to exist among high aerosol-generating subspecialities in dentistry.
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February 11, 2021
Impact of COVID-19 on the Work of Spanish Dentists: An Early Response to the Pandemic
Published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry, this paper describes a study that assesses the quality of information about COVID-19 that were provided to Spanish dentists, and if they felt the decisions taken by health institutions were appropriate during the early response to the pandemic.
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February 10, 2021
Legal Liability Facing COVID-19 in Dentistry: Between Malpractice and Preventive Recommendations
This review published in the Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine discusses the legal aspects of dental interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dentists should be aware of legal implications of implementing safety measures to prevent contamination during dental sessions. The review concluded that dentists should follow all scientific procedures and document all steps taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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February 6, 2021
What Is the Association Between Income Loss During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Children’s Dental Care?
Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, this article investigates the degree of unmet dental care needs in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to determine if the reported unmet dental needs were associated with pandemic-related household job or income loss. Findings from this study sample concluded there were 3 times as many reports of unmet dental care for a child when compared with unmet medical care. Furthermore, unmet dental care for a child was more common in households where pandemic-related job or income loss had occurred.
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February 6, 2021
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Oral Health Procedures Provided by the Brazilian Public Health System: COVID-19 and Oral Health in Brazil
This original research published in Health Policy and Technology describes a study that aimed to assess the number of dental procedures performed in the Brazilian public health system during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dental procedures decreased from 47 million in the first semester of 2019 to 15 million in 2020; approximately a 66% decrease. The paper concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic also reduced by half the number of oral health procedures provided in almost all Brazilian states, regardless of the incidence of COVID-19 in those states.
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February 4, 2021
Dental Emergencies Management in COVID-19 Pandemic Peak: A Cohort Study
This paper describes a study, published in the Journal of Dental Research, to measure the ability of a triage-based management strategy to limit patient admissions and to evaluate the success of remote management over a 1-month period. Of the patients included in the triage-based management strategy, approximately 50% of patients were able to be managed without admission for emergency, and of those patients, the proportion of successful management was over 70% for remote management and over 90% for on-site management.
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February 4, 2021
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Professionals and Oral Care Operational Services: A Systemic Review
Published in Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, this systematic review evaluates guidelines and strategies in providing dental care safely during the COVID-19 pandemic and reviews the efficacy of universal personal protective measures.
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February 2, 2021
Fear of COVID-19 in Madrid. Will Patients Avoid Dental Care?
This article published in the International Dental Journal describes how perceived infectability, germ aversion, and fear of COVID-19 in adults in Madrid changed during the COVID-19 pandemic and their influence on dental care behavior. Results indicate that those with a high COVID-19 fear were at least 6 times more likely to not visit the dentist and those older than 60 years were 8 times more likely to not visit the dentist.
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February 1, 2021
Mothers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Fears About Dental Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study
This study published in the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge of COVID-19 and to evaluate their attitudes and fears about dental visits during the pandemic. Mothers who were more willing to go to dentists themselves where more likely to take their children for dental visits, when compared to mothers who were unwilling to go themselves, indicating the importance of delivering reassuring information about infection control practices to this population.
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February 1, 2021
COVID-19 Prevalence and Related Practices Among Dental Hygienists in the United States
This paper published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene, estimates the prevalence of COVID-19 among dental hygienists practicing in the United States, describes infection prevention and control practices, and discusses trends in mental health in the population under investigation. Of the study participants, 3.1% had ever tested positive or been diagnosed with COVID-19. Over 99% of the participants reported their primary dental practice had enhanced infection prevention or control efforts in response to the pandemic.
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February 1, 2021
Association Between Periodontitis and Severity of COVID‐19 Infection: A Case-control Study
Published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, this paper discusses a study that aimed to estimate the extent to which periodontitis is associated with COVID-19 complications. Results from the 568 study participants concluded that periodontitis was associated with a higher risk of complication from COVID-19 requiring ICU admission and assisted ventilation.
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January 31, 2021
The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak on the Polish Dental Community’s Standards of Care—A 6-month Retrospective Survey-based Study
In this study, researchers aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Polish dental community, standards of care, health, and welfare. This research article published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded that most Polish dentists followed the recommendations provided and restricted their practices to admitting only patients with pain or incomplete treatment.
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January 30, 2021
The Role of Teledentistry in Oral Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic
While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges to care delivery, innovative approaches such as teledentistry have allowed dental care to be delivered remotely. This study published in Advances in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery evaluated the patient experience and effectiveness when utilizing teledentistry for care delivery.
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January 28, 2021
Dentistry’s Full Recovery Still Months Away
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in patient volume remaining well below pre-COVID-19 levels. This article discusses some of the factors that may influence dentistry’s full recovery, including vaccination distribution and availability and consumer sentiment to return to dental offices.
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January 28, 2021
Pediatric Dental Care During and Post-COVID-19 Era: Changes and Challenges Ahead
Published in the Pediatric Dental Journal, this paper discusses the changes and challenges of pediatric dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the post-COVID-19 era. Traditional approaches in the management and provision of pediatric oral health care will need to be adapted to the new era to be able to control the disease and maintain the oral health of the population.
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January 26, 2021
COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Impact on Pediatric Dentistry in Austria: Knowledge, Perception and Attitude Among Pediatric Dentists in a Cross-Sectional Survey
Published in the Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, this paper discusses a study that aimed to assess the knowledge, perception, and attitude regarding COVID-19 among pediatric dentists in Austria. Data suggests, of the pediatric dentists who had their practice open, most followed national and international recommendations during provision of care.
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January 25, 2021
The Contrasting Short‐term Effects of COVID‐19 on Dental Care Practices in the United States
Published in Clinical and Experimental Dental Research, this article compares the short-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental practices. It also examines racial disparities in context of the effects of the pandemic on the ethnicity of dentists who participated in the study.
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January 22, 2021
Psychological Distress and the Perceived Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on UK Dentists During a National Lockdown
This paper published in the British Dental Journal discusses a study that aimed to determine the level of psychological distress in UK dentists during the lockdown period. Data suggests that while levels of psychological distress was reduced (attributed to lessened day-to-day stressors of clinical dentistry), novel stressors were introduced during the lockdown period warranting monitoring of mental health and wellbeing of dentists.
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January 21, 2021
Anxiety Among Dental Professionals and Its Association With Their Dependency on Social Media for Health Information: Insights From the COVID-19 Pandemic
Posts on the viral origin, pathogenesis, and transmission have flooded social media platforms resulting in a phenomenon known as ‘infodemic’ which has adversely impacted the psychological wellbeing of dental health care workers. Published in BMC Psychology, this paper discusses the impact of social media on the anxiety levels of dental health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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January 15, 2021
Geography Is Destiny: Dentists’ Access to COVID Shots Depends on Where They Live
This article published by Kaiser Heath News discusses how states are diverging from CDC guidelines in their COVID-19 vaccination plans, despite the CDC advisory board recommending dentists be prioritized for vaccinations as front-line health workers.
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January 15, 2021
Oral Health Matters: The Ethics of Providing Oral Health During COVID-19
Published in the HEC Forum, this paper highlights the importance of recognizing oral health care as a part of primary health care, and the opportunity the COVID-19 pandemic has presented to reshape how oral health care is financed and delivered.
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January 7, 2021
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Dentists and Supporting Staff at a University Dental Hospital in Argentina
The risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2 is higher in oral health care professionals. This paper published in the Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research, describes a study that aimed to evaluate the prevalence of COVID-19 in essential health care workers, who provided services at a dental care and educational institute in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area.
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January 7, 2021
Dental Emergencies Presenting to Maxillofacial Units During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A 5-Centre UK Hospital Study
This paper from the British Dental Journal describes a study to monitor the presentation and management of dental emergencies at 5 hospital trusts in the UK. The burden of dental emergency presentation should be anticipated and planned for during lockdown periods and warrants a restructuring of emergency dental service provision.
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January 5, 2021
Postponed Dental Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Correlates. Evidence From the Nationally Representative COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring in Germany (COSMO)
The initial few months of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in decreased use of dental services in Germany. Results from this study published in Healthcare identified that more than one out of 5 individuals postponed a dental visit. Several correlates of these postponed visits were identified, which may inform dental care providers of individuals at risk for deterioration of oral health exacerbated by postponed dental visits.
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January 5, 2021
SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Oral Health: Therapeutic Opportunities and Challenges
Evidence suggests that patients diagnosed with COVID-19 experience several oral health symptoms. This scientific review, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, provides an updated source of information about SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 and its effects on oral health care.
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January 1, 2021
Planning the Restorative Dental Treatment at the Time of Coronavirus Pandemic: A 2-arm Strategy
This editorial published in The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice discusses changes regarding planning dental treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper proposes a strategy to plan restorative dental treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes reducing the time needed to perform the dental treatment (and the required number of visits) and a treatment plan designed to decrease the use of aerosol generating procedures.
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December 29, 2020
Trends in US Outpatient Antibiotic Prescriptions During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published for the Infectious Diseases Society of America, this paper discusses trends in US outpatient antibiotic prescriptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data indicates antibiotic prescriptions decreased from January 2020 to May 2020, and included antibiotic agents used for dentistry.
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December 29, 2020
Clinical Response to COVID-19 and Utilization of an Emergency Dental Clinic in an Academic Institution
This paper published in the Journal of Endodontics, describes the response of an emergency dental clinic at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) during the initial peak surge in COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts and the provision of emergency dental care during a pandemic.
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December 28, 2020
Implementation of Photographic Triage in a Pediatric Dental, Orthodontic, and Maxillofacial Department During COVID‐19
Published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, this paper describes a photographic triage system that was initiated at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to facilitate continued assessment of dental, orthodontic, and maxillofacial emergencies.
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December 18, 2020
The Importance of COVID-19 Vaccination for Healthcare Personnel
Following the recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunizations Practices (ACIP), the CDC recommended healthcare personnel be among those offered the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine which include dentists, dental hygienists, and assistants.
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December 11, 2020
Beyond Re-emergence: Pediatric Dentistry Practice Checklist
This American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) resource is a continually updated page connecting users to the latest information on infection prevention and control practices to help pediatric dentists stay as safe as possible while caring for children during the pandemic. Presented in categories created for ease of use, the Beyond Re-emergence practice checklist offers information that is vital to safety in pediatric dentistry during COVID-19 and beyond with topics like operating room access, in-office testing, and vaccination.
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December 11, 2020
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Dentistry: The Clinical, Legal and Economic Consequences – Part 1: Clinical
This paper published in the British Dental Journal discusses the clinical, legal, and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentistry. While the full effect of the disruption to dentistry is likely to be substantial, the paper discusses the immediate future, as well as longer-term permanent changes.
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December 3, 2020
Dental Challenges and the Needs of the Population During the Covid-19 Pandemic Period. Real-Time Surveillance Using Google Trends
This paper published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health aims to understand the dental challenges and needs of the population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data has identified greater dental needs in the population in the post-pandemic period and the importance of considering teledentistry programs in preparation for future pandemic outbreaks.
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November 25, 2020
Pivoting Dental Practice Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Systematic Review
This systematic review published in Medicina identifies additional infection control measures being implemented globally and evaluates the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental professionals. The review highlights the importance of evidence-based safety practices required to help dental professionals make important and informed safety decisions.
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November 23, 2020
Patients With Detectable SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody are Noninfectious
It is important for dentists to know patient’s infectivity status as it determines the provision of oral health care. This scientific paper, published in the British Dental Journal concludes that patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody test are non-infectious (>99% certainty) and can be safely treated with good precautions.
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November 21, 2020
Prosthodontic Principles in Dental Implantology: Adjustments in a Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic-Battered Economy
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on dental care providers and dental offices. This publication discusses adjustments that may need to be met to encourage patients to invest in implant treatment.
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November 19, 2020
Re-emergence: A Report on Pediatric Dental Practice Re-entry Into Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic
This report published by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) assesses the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on pediatric dental care. The report is based on survey data during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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November 17, 2020
Incidence of COVID-19 Virus Transmission in 3 Dental Offices: A 6-Month Retrospective Study
This publication describes a study conducted over a 6-month period (March 15 to September 15, 2020) in 3 different dental offices in New York, that aimed to determine the incidence of COVID-19 virus transmission in those practices. By utilizing appropriate infection control guidance, the 3 dental offices were able to record no transmission of COVID-19 to healthcare workers or patients during the study period.
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November 15, 2020
The Influence of 2020 Coronavirus Lockdown on Presentation of Oral and Maxillofacial Trauma to a Central London Hospital in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
This paper describes the effect the lockdown had on oral and maxillofacial surgical trauma presentations during the pandemic. Analyzing how the flow of emergency referrals for dental infection have been managed can inform and improve patient management pathways in the future.
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November 13, 2020
How Did COVID-19 Impact on Dental Antibiotic Prescribing Across England?
Antibiotic resistance is the result of unnecessary antibiotic use. This paper describes how restricted access to dental care as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in higher antibiotic prescribing.
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November 12, 2020
Who Is Caring for the Oral Health of Dependent Institutionalized Elderly During the COVID‐19 Pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated oral health challenges in care homes. This editorial in the British Journal of Gerodontology discusses the urgent need of re-establishing oral health care delivery for the dependent elderly.
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November 11, 2020
Effect of COVID-19 Lockdown on Dental Care of Patients: A Survey Analysis
This scientific paper published in the International Journal of Research and Review describes the effects the COVID-19 lockdown had on routine dental care and evaluated patient willingness for teledentistry. The paper concludes that age and gender are not barriers to acceptance of teledentistry and can be used for facilitation of dental care.
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November 1, 2020
Responding to a Pandemic: Development of the Carolina Dentistry Virtual Oral Health Care Helpline
This original contribution to the Journal of the American Dental Association describes the Carolina Dentistry Virtual Oral Health Care Helpline, established for consultation and triage for people with oral health questions and concerns, aimed at preventing unnecessary in-person care.
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October 30, 2020
HPI Poll: Urban Dentists Reporting Lower Patient Volume Than Rural Dentists
Since March 23, 2020, ADA’s Health Policy Institute has been conducting a biweekly poll on economic conditions during the pandemic. According to data from the poll from October 19, dentists practicing in 20 of the largest US cities reported lower patient volume than those practicing in rural and/or smaller urban areas.
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October 21, 2020
Patient Perceptions About Professional Dental Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
This publication describes a study that aimed to identify patient perceptions of risk susceptibility and attitudes toward COVID-19 in a dental setting. As patients’ confidence to return to regular dental visits may be influenced by certain conditions and events, this study sought to identify that information, so consistent public health messaging can be used to target susceptible populations and work to address their fears of contracting the virus.
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October 16, 2020
Infographics: National Findings on Health Centers’ Response to COVID-19
To determine health centers’ response to COVID-19, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has been surveying health centers weekly. In addition to identifying if health centers are meeting testing needs in their communities, there is information on turn-around times for COVID-19 test results, and issues with personal protective equipment (PPE) access are identified.
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October 15, 2020
ADA Study Finds COVID-19 Rate Among Dentists Less Than 1%
A survey conducted by the ADA in June 2020 determined that fewer than 1% of dentists nationwide were estimated to be COVID-19 positive. The sample size of 2,195 dentists included dentists from every state and Puerto Rico.
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October 14, 2020
Dentists Are Facing Difficulties in Recruiting Dental Team Members During Recovery
A recent poll conducted by the ADA Health Policy Institute identified recruiting dental team members as a challenge. As of October 5, approximately 99% of dental offices in the US were open, however staffing was at approximately 93% of pre-COVID-19 levels.
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October 12, 2020
New ADA Toolkit Offers Guidance for Providing COVID-19 Testing in Dental Practices
In response to expressed interests by dentists, the ADA released a toolkit to help dentists apply for federal certification required to offer their patients rapid response, point-of-care COVID-19 testing.
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October 2, 2020
Vaccine Allocation Framework Identifies Dentists as Essential
This article describes the recommendation made at the National Academies panel (tasked with drafting the framework to inform decisions about how to allocate the initial supply of the vaccine through its Committee on Equitable Allocation of the Vaccine for the Novel Coronavirus), affirming that dentists should have early access to a vaccine.
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September 29, 2020
Dentists’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Professional Behavior Toward the COVID-19 Pandemic
This paper published in The Journal of the American Dental Association examines dentists’ knowledge, attitudes, and professional behavior toward COVID-19. There were 1,251 survey respondents from 49 countries, allowing for a broader analysis of dentists’ perspectives from around the world.
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September 28, 2020
Managing the Oral Health of Cancer Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspective of a Dental Clinic in a Cancer Center
Published in a special issue of the Journal of Clinical Medicine titled, ‘Impact of COVID-19 on the Dental Community’, this article describes how a dental clinic in a comprehensive cancer center, was able to continually provide medically necessary and urgent dental care, through the timely adaptation of clinical workflows and guidelines to ensure risk of transmission remained low.
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September 28, 2020
Characteristics of US Adults Delaying Dental Care Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
This resource discusses a study conducted in May/June 2020, which describes the characteristics of US adults who delayed dental care due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The nationally representative survey sample identified that nearly half of the respondents reported delaying going to the dentist or seeking dental care as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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September 14, 2020
Oral Health Value Based Care: The Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Story
ADA informs about a new value-based model of care for federally qualified health centers (FQHCs). The National Association of Community Health Centers and DentaQuest partner to describe the role of FQHCs as part of the dental safety net in the US. Two critical questions are addressed: 1) Should FQHCs move toward value-based payments and care during a pandemic, and 2) How can FQHCs adapt toward valued oral health care delivery as a result of COVID-19.
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September 3, 2020
Fact Sheet: Service Use Among Medicaid & CHIP Beneficiaries Age 18 and Under During COVID-19
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services releases data on the impact of COVID-19 on the service utilization for children age 18 and under enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The data covers many key domains including dental services
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September 1, 2020
COVID-19 Forces New Approaches to Delivering Oral Health Care
This article published by the National Conference of State Legislatures discusses the importance of new approaches to delivering oral health care with a focus on coverage and access to teledentistry, reaching the underserved, and preventive care for children.
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August 31, 2020
Clarifying the WHO Guidance on Dental Care During COVID-19: An Interview With Dr. Julie Hawley
An interview with Dr. Julie Hawley, the director of analytics and evaluation at the DentaQuest Partnership for Oral Health Advancement, clarifies a misreading of the World Health Organization’s recent COVID-19 dental guidance.
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Resource references WHO Interim Guidance published on 8/3/2020: Considerations for the Provision of Essential Oral Health Services in the Context of COVID-19
August 26, 2020
COVID-19 Vaccine Prioritization: Work Group Considerations
A presentation on work group considerations for COVID-19 vaccine prioritization to ensure equity in vaccine allocation and distribution.
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August 25, 2020
Best Practices for Infection Control in Dental Clinics During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Prepared by the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention (OSAP), this best practices resource guide was developed as a compilation of current regulations, guidance, and practice tips aimed at establishing an infection control plan.
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August 15, 2020
COVID-19 Is an Opportunity for Reform in Dentistry
A correspondence discussing the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity for reform in dentistry, including delineating the role of dental personnel in an integrated model of care and re-orienting dental care towards a less invasive and more preventive approach.
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August 14, 2020
Is There an Upside to COVID-19 for Dentistry?
This commentary guest editorial, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, discusses opportunities for furthering dentistry. These include providing added layers of safety for patients and staff, technology-assisted patient interactions, and acknowledging dentistry’s essential role in overall health care.
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August 12, 2020
From the Factory to the Frontlines – The Operation Warp Speed Strategy for Distributing a COVID-19 Vaccine
This report to Congress discusses the Operation Warp Speed (OWS) strategy for quickly distributing a COVID-19 vaccine.
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August 12, 2020
American Dental Association Responds to World Health Organization Recommendation: Dentistry Is Essential Health Care
A statement by the American Dental Association disagreeing with the World Health Organization’s recommendation to delay ‘routine’ dental care in certain situations due to COVID-19.
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Resource references WHO Interim Guidance published on 8/3/2020: Considerations for the Provision of Essential Oral Health Services in the Context of COVID-19
August 7, 2020
COVID-19 and Dentistry: Challenges and Opportunities for Providing Safe Care
An article published on the Patient Safety Network (of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality), identifies the challenges and opportunities for providing safe care in dentistry.
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August 4, 2020
Guidance for Dental Settings
Published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this regularly updated “Guidance for Dental Settings” consists of infection prevention and control guidance for dental settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. This guidance consists of recommendations for routine care and recommendations for patients with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19.
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July 27, 2020
Dental and Doctors’ Offices Still Struggling with COVID Job Loss
A California Healthline article discussing dental office employment trends as affected by COVID-19. From February to April, the number of dental office employees in California decreased by approximately 60%, higher than the nation-wide decrease (of dental employment) of 56%.
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May 6, 2020
Recommendations for the Re-Opening of Dental Services: A Rapid Review of International Sources
Compiled recommendations for the reopening of dental services identified from 17 guidance documents from 16 countries produced March 11-18, 2020.
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January 13, 2020
Using Dental Health Care Personnel During a Crisis: COVID-19 Pandemic in the Bronx, New York
This article published in Public Health Reports, describes efforts of Jacobi Medical Center and its use of nontraditional health care personnel to provide health care services during the initial few months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The article shows how dental staff members can be called upon as additional health personnel during times of need.
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January 3, 2020
Pediatric Dental A&E Service During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Greater London Area
This paper, published in the European Archives of Pediatric Dentistry, describes a Pediatric dental A&E service during the first lockdown that utilized a telephone triage system. While telephone consultations and digital photographs were useful for screening patients, this paper also discusses factors that limit provision of care utilizing tele-dentistry.
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