Assessment of Knowledge of Oral Hygiene Practices during Pandemic and its Post-COVID-19 Impact: A Survey-Based Study

Abstract

Objectives: The main objective of the study was to assess Knowledge of oral hygiene practices during the pandemic and its post-COVID-19 impact among the community of Delhi and NCR region.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among the local population of Delhi and NCR during April and May of 2022. Links to the survey were sent by email and several social media platforms, including WhatsApp. Before answering any questions on the questionnaire, participants were asked to read the study's information and provide their informed permission.Results: A total of 516 people did the survey and their responses were included in data analysis. 78 (15.12) agreed and 379 (73.455) said no access and 59(11.43%) said not always with a p-value˂0.05. 464 (89.92%) agreed that they experienced anxiety and fear during COVID-19 related to their oral hygiene whereas 52 (10.08%) did not, with p-value˂0.05. 406 (76.68%) agreed on receiving guidance and recommendations from a dental or a health professional to maintain or improve oral health during COVID-19 whereas 110 (21.32%) disagreed with p-value˂0.05.Conclusion: Teledentistry was merely used; its use must be encouraged to provide online services to patients in such a pandemic situation. Yet people tried to change their oral hygiene habits and diet to improve their oral health.

Keywords: Oral health; Teledentistry; Oral hygiene practice; COVID-19; Delhi