Holistic approach on dentistry post covid-19- critical assessment of literature

Author: 
Praveena Raman

Background: An outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in China has influenced every aspect of life. Healthcare professionals, especially dentists, are exposed to a higher risk of getting infected due to close contact with infected patients. Despite having a high standard of knowledge and practice, dental practitioners around the globe are in a state of anxiety and fear while working in their respective fields due to the COVID-19 pandemic impact on humanity. A number of dentist’s have either modified their services according to the recommended guidelines to emergency treatment only or closed down practices for an uncertain period to decrease the risk of getting infected from patients and potentially spread it to their peers, families and other patients. Aim: This review aims at narrating some of the practically implementable SOP’s (standard operating procedures) into the dental practice during this pandemic era along with a guidance in a holistic approach. Methodology: Literature search was done using key words, followed by inclusions and exclusions. Results: Based on the literature search and the author’s experience, a working classification was made for ease in compilation and perseverance of data. Conclusion: Dental practices need to review their infection control policies, engineering controls, and supplies. Health care providers must keep themselves up-to-date about this evolving disease and allow dental care to be provided while mitigating the spread of this novel infection. Also personal care is very much essential for a dentist in this pandemic era.

Paper No: 
3254