Orthodontics and the Pandemic: Long Term Consequences

Abstract

ABSTRACT Title Orthodontics and the Pandemic: Long-Term Consequencess Purpose Review of topics related to orthodontics and the COVID19 pandemic. Materials and Methods Originally planned as a Critical Appraisal of select research questions, it became evident there are insufficient studies; rather, this is a comprehensive review of the scientific literature, professional news sources, and lower tier publications. Results The effect of the pandemic on orthodontic private practice and orthodontic education starting in March 2020 was keenly felt as most closed completely or opened for emergencies only. When practices reopened, it was realized that orthodontic care was urgent – patients could not wait for months without continuing their treatment. Orthodontists were confronted with the need to make broad and costly modifications to the way they practiced in a short time. 15 Changes included full personal protective equipment, increased disinfection protocols, airflow considerations, and fewer patients seen with longer appointments and longer workdays. Orthodontic residencies closed for 3 months or more, and like private practices, were forced to make the same changes while trying to ensure residents received the training and experience required to graduate. Fortunately, fifteen months later practices in most countries are 20 returning to normal levels of income and production, albeit at higher costs. Conclusion Changes in infection control, airflow in an office, aerosol generation, and the trend towards intraoral scanning and the contact-less or paperless office are probably permanent. Orthodontists must also be aware of their obligation as health providers interested in the overall well-being of their patients.