Coronavirus disease: Dental review

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the WHO, profoundly affected healthcare systems globally.
• High transmission rates of SARS-CoV-2 necessitated significant changes in dental practice protocols.
• Dentists were advised to suspend aerosol-generating procedures to mitigate viral spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the lifecycle and clinical symptoms of SARS-CoV-2.
• To address critical issues in dental practice related to COVID-19 prevention.
• To discuss orofacial clinical manifestations and treatment considerations during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles and public health guidelines.
• Analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 lifecycle and transmission routes.
• Synthesis of information on dental care adaptations and patient management.

Main Results:

• Understanding the virus's lifecycle is crucial for infection control in dental settings.
• Clinical symptoms of COVID-19 can present with orofacial manifestations.
• Strict preventive measures are essential for safe dental practice.

Conclusions:

• Dental professionals require updated knowledge on COVID-19 for effective prevention and patient care.
• Adapting dental treatments to minimize aerosol production is vital.
• Further research is needed on the long-term orofacial effects of COVID-19.