Assessment of the knowledge and awareness about use of precautionary measures during Covid 19 pandemic among dental surgeons in India- a cross sectional study

Background: Since December 2019 the rapid spread of the COVID- 19 has induced attention of the government and the public. The motive of this survey was to assess the knowledge and awareness about use of precautionary measures during COVID 19 pandemic among dental surgeons in India. Method: This cross sectional web based survey was carried out from 23rd May 2020 to 5th 0f June 2020 comprising of multiple choice questions created by using Google forms. The questionnaire was divided into two sections one containing demographic details and other section containing questions about practice management during this pandemic. Link was shared amongst dentists in India by using various social media platforms and 400 dentists of different specialities took part in the survey. Result: Majority of the 400 participants were well informed in infection procedures but many of them were unaware of the alternatives that can be used during this pandemic. For example only 44.8% of dentists were aware of the anti-retraction hand piece and maximum of the dentists were unaware of the fact that centralized AC do not contribute to the spread of infection but its better to use them with HEPA filters. Conclusion: The basic knowledge of COVID-19 among the dental surgeons in India is acceptable However, dentists had limited comprehension of the extra precautionary measures that protect the dental staff and other patients from COVID-19.