Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Pediatric Dentists Regarding Oral Manifestations of COVID-19 in Children: An Electronic Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Pediatric dentists play a role in the prevention of the communicable diseases such as COVID-19 and in the identification and referral of those children. There are concerns about the identification, referral, diagnosis, and treatment of oral manifestations of COVID-19 in children. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among pediatric dentists regarding oral manifestations of COVID-19 in children. Materials and Methods: This questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey included 255 registered pediatric dentists at Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry. They were E-mailed an E-questionnaire with the help of Google Forms portal including informed consent and 16 formulated questions assessing the KAP among pediatric dentists regarding oral manifestations of COVID-19 in children. Incomplete forms were not accepted. The response was awaited for a period of 3 months. The collected data were subjected to descriptive and Chi-square analysis. Results: Sixty-three percent of the population had knowledge about all the oral manifestations of COVID-19 seen in children. Sixty percent were unsure about scheduling the next dental appointment for such patients. 48.3% of pediatric dentists could not prescribe medications for oral manifestations of COVID-19. Conclusion: Pediatric dentist could identify and diagnose the oral manifestations of COVID-19 and its associated complications however were unsure of treatment modalities as there is limited evidence for definitive treatment regarding the same. Clinical protocols concerning treatment for oral manifestations due to COVID-19 should be well established and practiced.