Knowledge and Practice of Dentists toward Dental Lasers and Their Use during and Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Scenario in South India: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Abstract

Abstract Background The advent of dental lasers has overcome the drawbacks of conventional clinical practice. It is considered to be a safer alternative during and post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in terms of infection control and reduced aerosol production. The study aims to assess the knowledge and practice of dentists toward dental lasers and their use during and post-COVID-19 pandemic scenario. Methodology This is a cross-sectional, analytical study conducted among dental professionals in South India. A total of 444 dental professionals participated in the study. A self-administered questionnaire with 15 closed questions was given to the participants. Chi-square test was used to analyze the obtained data. Results The results indicated that the majority of the dental professionals were aware of the use, the types, watts, wavelength, and types of emission of dental lasers. They had good knowledge about the common uses of lasers in dentistry. Majority of the dental professionals had not used dental lasers anytime in their practice, but are willing to adopt it as a safer alternative option during and post-pandemic scenario. Conclusion Application of knowledge of dental laser into clinical practice is beneficial in improving dental care and to enhance infection control.