A survey of COVID-19 linked experience, knowledge, attitude, and behaviours among orthodontists and orthodontic residents in Nigeria

Background: Orthodontic practitioners have a high exposure risk to cross infection with COVID-19 due to proximity with the patients and frequent exposure to body fluids during procedures. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate COVID-19 related experiences, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours among orthodontists and orthodontic residents in Nigeria, and to identify factors related with their self-perceived and actual level of COVID-19 related knowledge. Methods: An online questionnaire was sent to a sample of orthodontists and orthodontic residents in Nigeria to survey demographic characteristics, personal experiences, knowledge, attitude and behaviours related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The data collected were analysed using descriptive analysis, chi-square test and regression analysis. Results: A total of 29 (54.7%) respondents were specialist orthodontists while 24(45.3%) were orthodontic residents. Most orthodontists (96.6%) and orthodontic residents (95.8%) had completed COVID-19-related training programs and the Internet (98.1%) was their primary source of knowledge. The mean self-perceived knowledge score was 4.44 ± 0.55 while their total knowledge score was 4.15 ± 0.60. Attitudes towards the use of PPE (P = 0.001) and compliance with the use of pre-procedural mouth rinse with 1% Hydrogen Peroxide or 0.2% povidone Iodine (P = 0.034) was significantly different among the respondents based on their professional status. Conclusions: COVID-19-related training programs as well as provision of essential personal protective equipment are essential for the improvement of knowledge, confidence, and preparedness of orthodontic professionals.