Changes in paediatric dental clinic after reopening during COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan: a retrospective study

Objectives Affected by COVID-19 pandemic, The Department of Paediatric Dentistry of School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University was closed in late January 2020, and resumed on 20 April. Our study aimed to explore the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on paediatric dental services which might assist global paediatric dentists to build confidence and make appropriate policies under the pandemic. Design A retrospective study was performed. Medical records of patients were retrieved but without any private information, including patient name, ID number and address. Participants All data of the patients from 20 April to 31 July in 2020 and 2019 were extracted and analysed including demographics, dental diagnosis and treatment methods. A total of 18 198 patients were included in the study. Results During this period, no medical staff or patient was infected with COVID-19 due to dental services. A total of 6485 in 2020 but 11 713 during the same period in 2019 visited the department. Compared with 2019, gender distribution did not change, but age distribution changed with an increase under 6-year-old. The diagnoses including caries, retained primary teeth, malocclusion, deep pits and fissures changed significantly, while pulpitis, apical periodontitis, tooth trauma, early loss of primary teeth, supernumerary teeth showed little change. Aerosol generating procedures were adopted less frequently overall in this period. Conclusions The reopening of paediatric dental services is proceeding steadily with significant changes in the characteristics of the patients and treatment procedures.

Automated summary

This study aimed to explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on paediatric dental services. The study found that there were no COVID-19 infections among medical staff or patients during dental services. Compared to 2019, there was a decrease in the number of visits and changes in age distribution, as well as significant changes in certain diagnostic categories.