Characteristics of paediatric dental emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

AIM: Except for emergencies and urgent cases, dental treatments have been suspended in Saudi Arabia. This report examines the pattern of emergency dental care provided to children and adolescents in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia, which has been affected by the current COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: In late March 2020, the General Directorate of Dentistry, Ministry of Health (MOH), administered an online dental emergency investigation form, which was to be completed by all MOH (governmental) dental centres and sent to the MOH on daily basis. This report included patient information (such as gender and age), whether the patient had contacted the hotline service centre, dental diagnosis, specialty of the treating dental professional and treatment provided. Descriptive analyses were generated. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on child and adolescent emergency dental services. The number of dental emergency visits was low, with a high percentage of dental infection. We urge dental professionals to pursue a consistent approach in treating emergency dental conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic era and following the national protocols.