Knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian Pediatric Dentists during COVID-19 pandemic

Braz Oral Res. 2022 Feb 9:36:e028. doi: 10.1590/1807-3107bor-2022.vol36.0028. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial impacts among Brazilian pediatric dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study with primary data collection was carried out using an online structured questionnaire. Data were submitted to descriptive analysis by using absolute and relative frequencies. A chi-square test was used for association analysis and log-linear regression models to estimate the prevalence ratio (5%). The population comprised mostly women and knowledge regarding COVID-19 was satisfactory (above 80% in most items). N95 masks and faceshields were used, albeit 64.22% reported difficulty in providing dental care to children due to the need for extra Personal Protective Equipment. Thirty eight percent provided urgency/emergency dental care, 59.78% performed invasive procedures, 59.56% used high speed handpieces, 8.44% started using cariostatics, and 6.22% introduced the use of chemomechanical caries removal agents. Fear for the future (PR = 1.21) and use of medications (for anxiety, depression, or insomnia) increased (PR = 1.16) among the ones who had wage losses. Brazilian pediatric dentists have knowledge about COVID-19, and attitudes in their clinical routines changed due the pandemic. Financial life was harmed and a negative impact of the pandemic in psychosocial aspects of workers was found.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dentists
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Surveys and Questionnaires