Impact of COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions in the management of oral infections - A retrospective study

Background and objectives: During the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, restrictions were placed on the provision of dental services. Various levels of restrictions were implemented throughout the year 2020. This study sought to evaluate the impact these restrictions had on the provision of dental services at an emergency dental hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: This was a retrospective review of patient presentations who presented to Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne (RDHM) for treatment of dental infections between 1st January 2019 until 31st December 2020. Patient demographic information and prescription of antibiotics were collected. Data pertaining to the pandemic period was then analysed and compared to the previous non-pandemic year, and specific analysis was undertaken during the lockdown periods of the 2020 pandemic. Results: The total number of patient presentations significantly reduced from 16320 (2019) to 10383 (2020). The proportion of patients who were prescribed antibiotics was significantly higher during the lockdown periods (p=<0.001), there was also an increase in repeat presentations (i.e. patients presenting with unresolved (or additional) complaints) when dental restrictions were imposed (p=<0.001). There was a significant decrease in the number of patients requiring interpreter services attending during the lockdown period (p=<0.001). Conclusions: The lockdown period in Melbourne in 2020 and associated restrictions in dental service provision resulted in a significant increase in antibiotic prescriptions for dental infections. These findings may reflect inadequate dental care provision and/or unmet dental need during the 2020 lockdown period.