Evaluation of Dentists' Knowledge and Attitude towards COVID-19 in Sari in 2021

Introduction: Dental health professionals and patients are at high risk of COVID-19 exposure due to blood and saliva droplets generated during dental procedures. People’s adherence for infection control is affected by their knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards COVID-19. Considering that dental practice is one of the most dangerous professions in terms of exposure to the disease, this study examines the knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding COVID-19 in north of Iran. Material and Methods: This descriptive study was based on questionnaires that were distributed among dentists in north of Iran. Demographic characteristics, knowledge of participants about COVID-19 and infection control measures and their attitudes were evaluated. The effect of pandemic on dentists’ life and quality of dental services were also investigated. Results: Totally, 125 dentists completed the questionnaire (99 general dentists and 26 specialists). The majority of participants (n=84, 67.2%) did not perform unnecessary dental procedures during the pandemic, and 114 (91.2%) of them changed their working hours. The most of contributors (N=207, 86%) focus on preventive care, not perform unnecessary treatments and reduce the treatment sessions at the lowest possible. Conclusion: The present study concluded that majority of the participants had good knowledge and positive attitude regarding dental care and related preventive measures in the pandemic period. Although, it is suggested that dental health professionals continue to strengthen knowledge and improve attitude by health training programs.