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What dentists need to know about COVID-19
1DDS, School of Dentistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Master's student, Master of Health Promotion, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
Oral Oncology
|May 8, 2020
Summary
Dentists must be vigilant against COVID-19 spread, as the virus is detected in saliva and poses an oral cavity infection risk. This review compiles essential information for dental professionals during the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), emerged in late 2019.
- Initial transmission likely occurred from animals to humans, evolving to human-to-human spread.
- The virus has been detected in saliva, highlighting potential oral transmission routes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate critical information for dentists concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To emphasize the importance of vigilance and preventive measures in dental settings.
- To explore the implications of saliva detection for COVID-19 diagnostics and transmission.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published articles on COVID-19 relevant to dentistry.
- Analysis of viral characteristics, transmission, and clinical implications.
- Evaluation of current management strategies and preventive guidelines.
Main Results:
- COVID-19 presents a significant infectious risk due to ACE-2 expression in the oral mucosa.
- Saliva testing for COVID-19 is a potential diagnostic avenue.
- No specific anti-nCoV treatments or vaccines are currently proven by randomized controlled trials; management is supportive.
Conclusions:
- Dental professionals must remain vigilant to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Implementing safety guidelines is crucial for protecting dental teams and patients.
- Understanding oral cavity vulnerability informs future prevention strategies in dental practice and daily life.