Retrospective Analysis of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Dental Health and Utilization of Dental Services: A Tertiary Care Study between 2017 and 2022

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Worldwide healthcare systems, especially those that provide dental treatment, have been devastated by the COVID-19 epidemic. Future healthcare initiatives must take into account the pandemic’s effects on oral health and service consumption. The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic affected dental health and the use of dental services, with a particular emphasis on a tertiary care facility from 2017 to 2022. Methods: Descriptive analysis was performed on data gathered from patient records, including demographics, diagnoses, treatments, and service consumption. Prepandemic, pandemic, and postpandemic variations in oral health trends and service use were evaluated. Findings: During the pandemic, there was a notable decrease in emergency dental visits, whereas teledentistry consultations increased. Age and socioeconomic level are two demographic variables that have an impact on variations in oral health trends. Conclusion: In summary, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant influence on dental health and service consumption, underscoring the necessity of flexible approaches to deal with new issues and inequities in dental care access. This study adds insightful information to the conversation on healthcare resilience and pandemic preparedness.