Awareness Among Dentists Regarding Oral Manifestations Of Post Covid 19 Disease: An Observational Crossectional Study In Central India

Abstract

Background: It is very important to increase awareness and understanding of oral manifestations of post COVID-19 disease among dentists which can happen by continuing education and training for dentists to recognize and manage oral manifestations of post COVID-19 disease.

Aims & objectives: The aim of this is to aware dentists regarding oral manifestation of covid 19 disease. The objectives of study were to assess the level of awareness, understanding and factors influencing awareness among dentists regarding oral manifestations of post COVID-19 disease. Evaluate the of oral manifestations of post COVID-19 among dentists in central India.

Methodology: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was carried out among COVID-19 recovered patients. A sample of 100 subjects, diagnosed as mild and moderate cases of COVID-19 disease were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. A well-structured questionnaire composed of total 21 Closed ended questions was send to sunjects.

Results: The study comprised an almost equal number of male (54%) and female (48%) participants and among them, 47% belong to the health professional group.  A total of 56% of subjects were aged above 35 years and 47% below 35 years.  Xerostomia, frequent aphthous ulcers, swallowing difficulty, and burning mouth were the most frequently encountered symptoms in study subjects during the disease and post recovery.

Conclusion: In the present study, dentists were found to have good knowledge toward novel corona virus disease with optimum preparedness level for dental practice modification. Dental fraternity is further advised to follow the standard guidelines overcoming this pandemic.