Only 42 percent of Americans believe their dentist is prepared to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at their office, according to a survey commissioned by the North American Dental Group.
The survey was conducted from April 3-6 by NADG in partnership with YouGov, an international market research and data analytics firm. In total, 1,270 U.S. adults responded.
Five survey findings:
1. Almost three-quarters of respondents (71 percent) said they are uncomfortable visiting their dentist during the pandemic for a nonemergency procedure.
2. A majority (54 percent) said they would be comfortable visiting the dentist for emergency services.
3. Overall, 43 percent of respondents said they had either delayed a dental check-up or procedure, or had developed a new dental issue during the social distancing period.
4. Regarding access to care, 39 percent believe dental offices are only open for emergencies, 27 percent think offices are closed and 34 percent are not sure.
5. Half of Americans believe the most important consideration for visiting the dentist amid the pandemic is knowing whether there have been cases of COVID-19 in the office.