Abstract
Objectives: This study analyzed Polish dentists’ knowledge of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the main problems in their work during the early phase of the pandemic. Methods: Dentists responded to an online anonymous survey consisting of 57 questions relating to socio-demographics, knowledge about COVID-19, and office procedures. The obtained data were analyzed using basic descriptive statistics, significance of dependencies and Chi square and Mann–Whitney tests; p < 0.05. Results: Ultimately, responses from 730 dentists were included. The mean age was 43.62 ± 11.57. Almost 3/4 of the respondents followed the information on COVID-19. A total of 95.5% had knowledge about COVID-19. Genetic testing was the basic test according to 69.2%. Further, 56.0% were concerned about the pandemic, and 23.6% were significantly anxious. In addition, 42.1% considered a risk of infection with the SARS-CoV-2 in the workplace as very high. A total of 84.0% admitted patients performing a triage and using personal protective equipment (PPE). Further, 44.5% planned to become vaccinated. Continuing the work during the pandemic was strongly correlated with age, sector, and location and duration of work. Conclusions: Most Polish dentists follow the information on the COVID-19 protocol and have sufficient knowledge about COVID-19. Dentists are concerned and anxious about the situation. The vast majority admitted patients during the pandemic and use PPE. Only almost half plan to be vaccinated.
Highlights
The current study focused on the early stage of the pandemic
Are some of the key findings about Polish dentists who responded to our survey
Most of the respondents follow the information about the COVID-19 pandemic on an ongoing basis
Summary
At the end of 2019, the first cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in Wuhan, China [1,2]. In Poland, the first case was confirmed on 4 March 2020, and the state of epidemic lockdown was declared on 15 March 2020, which led to interruption or reduction of work in dental practices across the country [4]. Dental practices were open again for patients since 27 April 2020. In this period a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases were diagnosed in Poland, compared to other countries. Data on SARS-CoV-2 in relation to dental procedures was limited and specific actions were insufficiently supported by scientific papers. Many dental healthcare practices provided emergency treatment only, or even chose to close completely, due to COVID-19 infection risk. According to Public Opinion Research Center CBOS data, the vast majority
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