Impact of the Coronavirus on Providing Oral Health Care in the Netherlands

Abstract

Objective: Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 during oral health care is potentially increased compared to regular social activities. Specific amendments to the Dutch national infection control guidelines were promulgated. This study aimed to map the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on providing oral health care during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 in the Netherlands. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was sent via email to a representative sample of dental hygienists and dentists in the Netherlands. Results: Of the 1700 oral health care practitioners approached, 440 (25.9%) responded to the survey. Patient access to oral health care was severely restricted during the..