220 - Assessment of Trends of Non-Restorative and Preventative Dental Treatment Pre- and Post-COVID: A Health Informatics Pilot Study

Abstract: Purpose
Use data analytics to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the number of pediatric patient visits and preventive dental services (sealants, fluoride varnish, and SDF)  among this pediatric patient population.
 
Methods
The study analyzed preventive dental services provided before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on services such as dental sealants, fluoride varnish, and sodium diamine fluoride applications between March 2017 and May 2023. Data were categorized by sex, race or ethnicity, and patient age, and input into Microsoft Excel for analysis. Descriptive statistics and Chi Square analysis were used to compare categorical data, allowing for a detailed review of the trends in dental service provision.
 
Results
The study found that pediatric clinic patients had a higher proportion of Hispanic or Latino individuals and fewer White and Asian patients compared to the local population. Post-pandemic, dental sealant use increased by 60.5%, while fluoride varnish and SDF treatments declined by 37.6% and 35.6%. The increase in sealants was significant, with no age or gender differences in treatment groups. Declines in fluoride varnish were significant and unaffected by demographic changes. These findings highlight shifts in preventive dental care after COVID-19.
 
Conclusion
This study highlights significant shifts in pediatric dental care revealed by health informatics, offering insights into changing behaviors. These findings can help guide future public health strategies and messaging. Ongoing analysis of pandemic-driven trends is essential to prepare for evolving patient needs and improve outcomes.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Pediatric Dental Residency Program