Comparing DMFS Scores and Recall Compliance in Infants before and During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Hypothesis and Objective: COVID-19 led to a decline in regular preventive healthcare utilization. This study hypothesized an increase in dental caries in infants during COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic levels. The study aimed to (1) compare caries prevalence in infants using dmfs (decayed, missing, filled surfaces) scores before and during COVID-19; (2) evaluate recall compliance; (3) assess the need for emergent dental and Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) treatment; and (4) determine the need of treatment under general anesthesia (GA). Methods: A retrospective study was conducted for infants presenting for initial visits in 2019 and 2021. We reviewed all children who presented to UIC in 2019 (n=128) and matched that sample size for review in 2021. Patient demographics, age at initial appointment, dmfs score, need emergency treatment and SDF, recall compliance, and need of treatment under GA were analyzed using univariate and Chi-Square analysis. Results: The mean dmfs percentages were 4.69% and 9.08% in 2019 and 2021 respectively, without significant statistical difference. The average age at first visit was 22 and 24 months in 2019 and 2021, respectively. Post-COVID, 57% infants required SDF application, significantly higher than the 34% pre-COVID (p< 0.05). GA necessity increased from 14% in 2019 to 23% in 2021. Recall compliance was 33% in both groups. Conclusions: Most infants presented closer to age 2 for their first visit. Findings suggest an increase in caries prevalence in the wake of the pandemic, with a significant increase in SDF use to manage caries and delay comprehensive treatment, usually under GA.