Qualitative thematic analysis of correspondence to British Dental Journal during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Since the start of Covid-19 pandemic, the incidence of morbidity and mortality of the disease worldwide has increased. In response, measures including social distancing and lockdown were implemented in many countries including the UK. UK dental services have been severely impacted due to increased risk of transmission, especially during aerosol generating procedures. Inevitably this resulted in many concerns for the dental team wishing to provide safe and appropriate care for their patients especially with little research and evidence about this disease. Aims: To explore the views, attitudes and experiences of correspondents to the British Dental Journal on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on dental services in the UK. Methods: Published letters of correspondents to the British Dental Journal that related to Covid-19 and dentistry were analysed using qualitative thematic analysis Braun’s and Clarke’s six step approach between April 2020 to May 2021. Results: Correspondents provided insight into many impacts on the dentistry sector in the UK. Five themes emerged from the data; these were: Safety, risk and the unknown; Modification of need and clinical care; Education, training and wellbeing; Public health and the role of the dental team and the organization of dental services. The analysis revealed a profession and services struggling to provide services in the absence of evidence and guidance. However, positive aspects were observed and may continue in the future such as increasing the knowledge of the pandemic, concentrating on minimal intervention and prevention, using of tele-dentistry, possibilities for enhancing the role of dentistry in general public health activity. Conclusion: This is the first reported study in the UK to explore dental team’s views, attitudes and experiences of Covid-19 pandemic. It has also provided insight into several obstacles in dentistry as well as dental professionals’ concerns before, during and after the pandemic.