Influence of the coronavirus pandemic on domiciliary dental care and associated problems in Japan -a questionnaire study

Background/purpose: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic had a major impact on many patients receiving domiciliary dental care, and many services were suspended. This study aimed to assess the interruption of domiciliary dental care due to COVID-19 and the oral and general condition of patients whose care was interrupted. Materials and methods: We randomly selected 1500 dentists providing domiciliary dental care in the Tokyo area and mailed them a questionnaire about the impact of COVID-19 on domiciliary dental care. The questionnaire investigated the level of interruption in care, infection prevention measures, oral care status, the motivation and psychological state of dental staff, and oral and general condition of patients after domiciliary care was resumed. Results: We received 322 responses, a return rate of 21.4 %. Approximately one-third of domiciliary dental care was suspended during the pandemic. Overall, 20 %–35 % of patients (and their families) were infected with COVID-19, but infection among dental staff was very rare. Infection prevention was thorough when domiciliary dental care was provided, including the use of protective clothing and face shields. Approximately 4 % of respondents refrained from using turbine and ultrasonic scalers, which generate aerosols. About 40 % of respondents checked on patients’ condition by phone or email. Conclusion: The percentage of domiciliary dental care suspended was lower than expected. Providers implemented practices to prevent infection, resulting in significant expenditure. The interruption of domiciliary dental care may have had a negative impact on patients’ oral and general health.