The Psychological Impact of the Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic on Dental Health-care Professionals – A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic has put the entire world’s population at risk of infection, which
is a big source of concern, primarily for susceptible populations like dentists. Objective: The objective of the study was to
examine dental trainees’ levels of COVID-19-related stress and anxiety, modifications in hygienic and social practices, and
perceptual concerns about the dental profession.

Methods: Student at Bareilly International University in Bareilly was sent
a self-structured questionnaire. Demographic details, inquiries on personal hygiene and social routines, students’ perceptions
of the sufficiency of information obtained during the outbreak and its source, subjective concerns about the dentistry field,
and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale were all included in the study. A total of 258 replies have been obtained.
Results: Moderate and severe anxiety was reported by 17% of students and 4% of students, respectively, with no significant
relationships between anxiety and gender or degree of study. A large number of students (46.5%–62.4%) reported significant
changes in most sanitary and social practices, with a highly significant link between changing sanitizer purchases and anxiety
levels. About 46% believed that their work performance was not up to par, and 31% said that they were considering changing
careers, with male students reporting the latter more frequently (63.8%).

Conclusion: COVID-19 has made a significant
number of students in our college concerned and has caused them to adjust their hygiene and social practices. One-third of
participants have concerns about the dentistry profession, necessitating the use of counseling and mental health support.
Key words: Anxiety, Bareilly International University, Coronavirus disease-19, dental students, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7