Year : 2020

Volume : Volume 11

Issue : Issue 1

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Arun Deepak.
arundeepak@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  The purpose of our research was to assess the impact of COVID- 19 pandemic on orthodontic practices according to perceptions of practicing orthodontists. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was circulated amongst 16 orthodontists where the questions were based upon the measures that orthodontists are taking to curb the spread of COVID-19 in clinical settings as well as easing patient anxiety and in turn increasing their compliance to the treatments. Results: We observed most of the orthodontists (89%) are facing problems while running their dental clinics in this pandemic outbreak. Around 65% orthodontists felt that existing patient compliance to the treatment appointments has decreased, which has led to increased incidence of relapse in the on-going treatments. Conclusion: Given the high transmissibility of COVID-19, controlling aerosol and human-to-human contact while limiting treatment to emergency patients only is advised during the outbreak. It is the responsibility of the orthodontic team to ensure safety and stop cross contamination within the clinical facility.

Keywords: COVID-19, patient anxiety, aerosol spread, orthodontics.