The Implications of Covid 19 on Pediatric Dentistry, Preventative Measures, and Child Management in Dental Clinics

Abstract

Covid-19, is declared as a pandemic by WHO, that is spreading all over the world expeditiously, its origin was recorded in Wuhan city, China. The first case was reported in Wuhan City in December 2019 and then started spreading all over the world. The virus spreads through the droplets and also through direct contact, all the medical workers, especially dentists are at risk due to the mode of infection. The deadly coronavirus has affected almost all ages, earlier it was found only to be infected for the old aged, but gradually evidence has proved that there is no low risk for even middle-aged and children too. The prevalence of coronavirus infection in the case of children is 1-5% among the cases diagnosed all over the world, but a gradual increased chance of infection for kids could be noticed. The impact of Covid-19 has changed the way of dental practice, and the impact on pediatric dentistry is not reported much. A pediatric dentist plays an important role in educating children about oral health and the maintenance of the same. The review is written focusing on the Covid-19 impact on pediatric dentistry, and precautionary measures to be followed by dentists and the children to lessen the chances of infection and transmission of the virus. Scheduling appointments based on the emergency profile, Proper sterilization, disinfection of the dental clinic and instruments that are being used, Preliminary tests before appointment, Recording Medical history of the children, creating awareness among children and parents, and other infection control measures. A pediatric dentist should be cautious, be able to make decisions suitably and follow the proper guidelines in the Covid times to avoid infection for both self and the child.