COVID – 19 Pandemic: The Implications for the Practice of Restorative Dentistry

Abstract

Objective: To assess the implication of COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of restorative dentistry in Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study regarding the impact of COVID-19 on restorative dental practice was carried out among dentists across different cadres working in either private or public practice. Data was obtained using an online survey questionnaire regarding the infection control practice, availability and use of personal protective equipment, practice modifications to combat COVID-19 outbreak and the impact of COVID-19. Data was analysed using the chi-square test and p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Amongst 137 dentists that participated in the study, majority of respondents were males (58.4%), a greater proportion (49.6%) were in the age range 35-44 years and 78.1% worked in public hospitals. A significantly higher number of male respondents (p=0.019) and public dental workers (p=0.036) immediately changed their mode of dental service delivery following the COVID-19 outbreak. Majority of respondents (60.6%) carried out restorative dental procedures despite the pandemic; most of these procedures being emergency dental treatment and non-aerosol generating dental procedures. About half of respondents had respiratory masks (51.8%) and isolation gowns (54.0%) available. Majority reported that the pandemic had decreased patient flow (88.3%), increased treatment fee (53.3%) and had an impact on the income generated (92%). Only 20.4% of respondents had
problems with their staff; the problems being emotional problems, work abandonment and demand of salary increase. The pandemic has had a negative impact on most respondents (74.5%) and only 31.4% respondents were optimally prepared to render dental services.
Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic has changed the mode of restorative dental practice in Nigeria; resulting in a psychological impact on dentists and a financial burden on dental practice.