Knowledge, attitude, and awareness among dentists regarding COVID-19 pandemic in West Bengal

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a global public health emergency, the rapid and extensive spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness among the dentists of West Bengal regarding coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: The study population for this survey are the dentists of West Bengal who work in government sector or in any private clinics. An online questionnaire comprising 28 questions was sent to the sample size. The questionnaire was composed of series of questions about the knowledge of dentists regarding the incubation period, symptoms, mode of transmission of coronavirus disease, their awareness about the infection control measures, and the attitude toward treating the patients with COVID-19. Results: A total of 107 dentists responded to this survey. Of them, 7.5% have completed their postgraduation in any specific subject, 30.2% are under postgraduate training, and 62.3% are practicing after completion of their graduation. Eighty percent of the dentists involved in the study have correctly reported the incubation period which is 7–14 days. Majority of the dentists were aware of the symptoms of COVID-19, which would help them in identifying the patients at risk of getting COVID-19 infection. Sixty-seven percent of them found it necessary to make the sitting arrangement at significant distances in the waiting area as a preventive measure. Majority of them considered that dentists should play an important role in spreading awareness regarding COVID-19. Conclusion: The dentists were found to have a good knowledge about the symptoms, mode of transmission, and the preventive measures. They were advised to follow the guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization and remain well informed about the recommended disease management protocols so that no stone is left unturned in defeating this pandemic.