Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Indian Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment: A Questionnaire Based Study

Introduction: The restrictions on patients concerning visiting their orthodontists as implemented by the lockdown guidelines created tremendous impact on the treatment procedure. The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on the Indian patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was prepared that consisted of 12 questions. The questionnaire were distributed to the patients undergoing orthodontic treatment through email and WhatsApp messages. Online informed consents were obtained from them and they were requested to respond within two weeks. Results: The female patients were found to be more apprehensive and anxious about the prolonged treatment duration, discomfort during the lockdown period, financial issues and treatment outcomes. Conclusion: The lockdown made the orthodontic patients worried about the future of their treatment. A healthy discussion regarding all the possible issues in this critical time between the doctors and the patients is desirable. Key words: Orthodontic treatment, lockdown, anxiety, questionnaire