The Fear of COVID-19 Infection and Its Correlates with Clinical Practice among Nigerian Dentists

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic was not without its consequences like fear and effect on the economy and health care systems, with dentists being at a high risk of contracting the infection. Objectives: The study aimed to assess the fear and risk of contracting the disease among Nigerian dentists. It also assessed a self-reported economic impact of the outbreak of COVID-19 disease on dental practices in Nigeria. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among Nigerian dentists. The survey link was forwarded on social media platforms of Nigerian dentists. The questionnaire inquired about fear/anxiety, self-reported effect on clinic income, adequacy of knowledge on COVID-19, and use of N95 facemask, among others. The statistical level was set at 5%.  Results: A total of 314 dentists (184 males and 130 females) within the age range of 22 to 63 years responded. The majority (214; 68.2%), were confident about their knowledge of the COVID-19 disease. Almost all the participants (298; 94.9%) entertained fears of contracting the disease through practice and transmission to family members, while 54.1% strongly agreed that theN95 mask should be worn routinely. However, all (100.0%) reported an economic impact of the pandemic on dental practice. Conclusion: The fear of contracting COVID-19 infection was high among dentists. Therefore, adequate and regular use of protective and preventive measures such as N95 face mask should be a priority among dentists. Attention should be paid to constant medical evaluation to those at risk.