Assessing the Knowledge, Anxiety and Fear of Patients Visiting Dental Hospital during COVID-19 Pandemic in Bhubaneswar City, Odisha. A Questionnaire Cross-sectional Survey
Subhalaxmi Baral
Department of Periodontology, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT (Deemed to be University), India.
Dhirendra K. Singh *
Department of Periodontology, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT (Deemed to be University), India.
Smriti P. Kumar
Department of Periodontology, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT (Deemed to be University), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Ease of transmission of COVID-19 makes people scared of getting infected with COVID-19 hence making them reluctant to visit dental health care providers, which delays dental care during COVID-19.
Aim & Objectives of the Study: To analyze the knowledge, anxiety and fear of subjects visiting dental hospital during COVID-19 pandemic in Bhubaneswar city, Odisha State, India, using a questionnaire form.
Materials and Methods: A total of 111 subjects visiting the outpatient of Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences (KIDS), Bhubaneswar who were indicated for any dental treatment were selected for the study. Fear and anxiety of the subjects was assessed before and after the required dental treatment using a questionnaire consisting. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 23 software.
Results: The result shows that majority of the subjects lack proper knowledge and were anxious to receive the treatment. Upon proper consultation and treatment, fear and anxiety reduced to a significant level.
Conclusion: Assessing pre-treatment anxiety using a questionnaire helps in modification in the treatment approach as well as the in the ambience of the dental clinic or hospital during COVID-19.
Keywords: Anxiety, COVID-19, pandemic, dental treatment