Evaluation of Coronavirus Disease 2019-Related Fear and Anxiety among Indian Dental Professionals based on Nationwide Survey

Abstract

Background: India is among the top five nations accounting for almost 15% of the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19) cases (June 2020). The implications of the pandemic have been felt among the highly vulnerable dental professionals due to
close patient proximity and frequent aerosols exposure. As such, dentists may develop severe anxiety and fear toward treating
patients in the present scenario.
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess anxiety and fear among dentists during the viral outbreak. Knowledge of dentists
regarding practice measures modified during COVID-19 pandemic has also been evaluated.
Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among dentists using a well-constructed pre-validated
online questionnaire (intraclass correlation with relation of 0.74). Snowball convenience sampling method was used. For statistical
analysis, Chi-square and Spearman correlation test were used.
Results: A total of 308 participants from across 29 states and 6 zones submitted the completed questionnaire. Majority of the
respondents (79.6%) were afraid of being infected with COVID-19 in their workplace. About 93.5% of participants were afraid of
carrying the infection from dental practice to their families. It was found that 99.4% were aware of the mode of transmission of
COVID-19 while 89% were updated with the current international guidelines for cross-infection control.
Conclusions: The present study highlights the preparedness of the Indian dental clinicians to resume practice while combating
the spread of COVID-19. It provides an insight into the mindset of practicing dentists and the need to form social support groups
to bolster resilience among the professionals.