Evaluation of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Parental Anxiety from Dental Perspective

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate parents’ attitudes and concerns regarding their children's dental treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic and to understand how these attitudes may guide approaches in potential future outbreaks. Methods: In the study, an informative survey consisting of 26 questions was applied to determine how parents feel about the COVID-19 pandemic, how concerned they are about their children's oral health and dental treatment plan, and the changes caused by COVID-19 vaccination practices. Questions 7 and 26 were repeated at the beginning and end of the survey to give the same question and answer meaning. Thus, the reliability of the survey was tested. Content validity was confirmed by expert evaluation, and reliability was assessed using repeated items with Kappa agreement. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson’s Chi-square, Fisher’s Exact, and Multiple Chi-square tests (P<.05). Results: A total of 438 parents participated. Female parents showed significantly higher anxiety regarding dental visits than males (P<.001). Expectations for infection-control measures, including disposable aprons and N95 mask changes, were also associated with gender (P=.037). Parents’ trust in COVID-19 vaccination and perceived reduction of infection risk differed by gender (P=.008). Higher concern levels were observed among parents of children requiring restorative or endodontic treatment (P<.05). Parents who had experienced COVID-19 symptoms emphasized stricter dental-clinic precautions (P=.003). Conclusion: The pandemic heightened parental concerns about dental visits; however, strengthened infection-control protocols and vaccination efforts improved parental confidence and facilitated the safe continuation of pediatric dental services. Key words: COVID-19 Pandemic, COVID-19 Vaccine, Pediatric Dental Treatments, Dentist Visit