Adaptations in orthodontics for current and future coronavirus disease 2019 best practices

This study aimed to determine adaptations orthodontists made during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic to maintain safety and determine which adaptations will remain after the pandemic.

An original 34-question survey was sent by mail to a randomized selection of practicing orthodontic specialists (n = 1000). Questions included the changes made during the pandemic in 4 categories (infection control, social distancing, appliance type, and teleorthodontics) and whether those changes will remain postpandemic.

The use of personal protective equipment increased during the pandemic, with a significant decrease anticipated after the pandemic. The most common aerosol modification during the pandemic and predicted after the pandemic was using an assistant with high-volume suction (61% and 49%, respectively; P = 0.0013). Ninety-six percent of orthodontists changed their waiting room protocol during the pandemic, but only 23% plan to continue that practice (P <0.0001). Forty-two percent of orthodontists increased clear aligners during the pandemic in response to patient demand (91%). The use of teleorthodontics increased from 8% to 68% during the pandemic and is expected to decrease significantly postpandemic. Virtual appointments are anticipated to be used for screening and consultations of new patients and monitoring active patients in clear aligners but not fixed appliances.

The specialty recommended patient safety modifications during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Postpandemic, enhanced personal protective equipment is expected to decrease, and high-volume suction will likely be continued for aerosol-producing procedures. Teleorthodontics will likely remain in limited use.