Effect of COVID-19 Lockdown on Dental Care of Patients: A Survey Analysis

Background: Routine dental care has been severely affected during COVID-19 lockdown. The primary objectives of the study were 1) to identify major dental problems faced and relief measures adopted during lockdown and 2) to assess awareness and usage of mobile dental apps during lockdown. The secondary objectives were 1) to assess patient willingness for teledentistry and 2) to assess age and gender related difference in approach to dental care. \r\nMaterials and Methods: Google forms platform was utilized to create an objective pattern, validated questionnaire and disseminated using various online communication means among 600 patients who had previously reported to the out-patient department. The questionnaire consisted of multiple choice questions enquiring about dental care during lockdown period and awareness and willingness towards teledentistry tools. Collected responses were descriptively analyzed and correlation established using chi-square test. \r\nResults: 516 responses were collected which included 267 males and 249 females from 5-85 years of age. Dental sensitivity was the most common dental problem faced followed by pain. Self-medication and home remedies were the major relief factors. There was no statistically significant difference between the various age groups (p=0.016) and between the genders (p=0.113) and their willingness to use mobile dental apps. \r\nConclusion: Age and gender are not significant barriers to acceptance of teledentistry and can be used to facilitate continued dental care. Use of existing mobile dental applications for basic oral hygiene maintenance and tobacco cessation could have been increased with better awareness.