IMPLICATIONS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC OUTBREAK ON DENTAL EMERGENCIES

Background/Purpose: The present study tries to present the impact and implications of Covid-19 Pandemic among patients of dental needs and emergencies among residents of Chittoor district’s town of Tirupati, India. Methodology: Demographic data analysis of patients from the initial days of a pandemic to the days later on was evaluated. Data variables included age, sex, reasons to visit in-addition to particulars of the treatment undergone during the visit. A series of comparative analysis of data two months prior to the declaration of the pandemic was statistically evaluated to know the significance and for better understanding of the compiled data. Results: A total of 2352 patients who have approached the dental hospitals and dentists during the stipulated time period were considered for the study. There was an acute 68.63% decline in patient footfall with significant change in the needs for visit of which the 57% cases needed support for oral infections. This was a considerable spike in count as compared to 40% such cases prior to pandemic. However, trauma and non-emergency cases have considerably reduced to 2.4% and 1.9% respectively. Conclusion: From the observations, it was evident that Covid-19 lockdown period has significantly impacted the rendering of dental services and emergencies. We like to suggest concerned oral professionals to take up video medicine practice for diagnosis. It shall not only bring assurance among people but also will identify critical emergencies which can be advised for immediate visit.