key: cord-0896044-igjiq6f8
authors: Martins-Júnior, Paulo Antônio; Carvalho Oliveira Coutinho, Danielle; Martins Paiva, Saul
title: Implications for dental professionals when caring for paediatric patients
date: 2020-06-26
journal: Evid Based Dent
DOI: 10.1038/s41432-020-0093-7
sha: 6dfab80a1f28716882e43a0183610d05bafcb2d7
doc_id: 896044
cord_uid: igjiq6f8

This paper is a narrative review of relevant literature.

global pandemic. Since then, the number of cases and deaths has increased exponentially each day.

COVID-19 can be transmitted human-to-human mainly through airborne droplets and splatter from respiratory secretions, saliva and blood through direct or indirect contact with mucosa and contaminated fomites. To date, measures such as frequent cleaning of hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub; avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth; covering nose and mouth with bent elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing;

and social isolation are effective in preventing the spread of the COVID-19. In cases of fever, cough and difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought. 1 Since the report of the first case of COVID-19 in January 2020, 2 researchers worldwide have worked tirelessly to understand the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the disease in order to achieve effective approaches to prevent contamination, to create accurate and reliable rapid tests and to treat those who have already contracted the disease. A simple search in PubMed using the key-word COVID-19 resulted in 12,959 papers by May 16 2020.

Data have shown that human beings of all ages are susceptible, but clinical aspects of the disease in children are yet to be fully comprehended.

The aim of this well-written, clear and focused review was to report gathered data of reported cases of COVID-19 on children and to highlight considerations for dental professionals providing care during the pandemic. 3 The review divides the data into four major topics: clinical aspects of COVID-19 in children; the child patient in the dental setting; country specific approaches and recommendations; and the role of guidelines and professional judgement. The authors highlighted that dental professionals must regularly seek and use reputable and reliable sources to keep themselves updated with the Implications for dental professionals when caring for paediatric patients

• Adherence to local guidelines is essential, treatment should avoid aerosol producing procedures, and the latest scientific information should be combined with patient and caregivers preferences to determine appropriate treatment protocols.

• Dental disease prevention for paediatric patients should be of high priority. 

World Health Organisation. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public

World Health Organisation. WHO Timeline -COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Characteristics in children and considerations for dentists providing their care