Dentists Offer Strong Defenses Against COVI-19

According to a study published ahead of the June 2021 print issue, based on the number of dentists with confirmed or probable COVID-19 infections, the cumulative infection rate for U.S. dentists is 2.6%.

By comparison, in June 2020, the cumulative COVID-19 prevalence rate for other U.S. health professionals ranged from 3.3% (Chicago hospital physicians) to 35.3% (U.S.-based emergency medical services).

“We’re pleased to see that dentists have demonstrated the continued low monthly incidence during the study period,” commented American Dental Association (ADA) Science and Research Institute CEO Marcelo Araujo, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D., the senior author of the report published on May 24, 2021.

Dr. Araujo added, “This study shows high rates of pre-appointment screening of patients and appropriate infection control measures throughout the study period, demonstrating that adhering to rigorous protocols for enhanced infection control helps protect their patients, their dental team, and themselves.”

The Journal of the ADA study is based on data collected June 9 - Nov. 13, 2020. For more information on COVID-19 and dental visits, visit MouthHealthy.org.

The study authors plan future research projects on the barriers and facilitators to wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) according to CDC recommendations and levels of protection against COVID-19 provided by different levels of PPE use and infection control procedures.

The ADA was founded in Niagara Falls, New York, during 1859.