COVID-19 testing in a UK dental practice - results of a pilot study

Objective In December 2019, a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) caused a disease outbreak that soon became a global pandemic. Dentists are potentially exposed to infectious microorganisms, including SARS-CoV-2, by virtue of the transmission routes and work environment. This study aims to determine the infection load in a dental healthcare setting during the onset of the pandemic in the UK, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of recommended test regimens in order to estimate potential risks for caregivers and patients in a dynamically changing pandemic environment. Methods Twenty-four persons (dental personnel of one dental office and family contacts) were included in this pilot study, and their infection load was determined between March and May 2020 using antigen and antibody tests. Results Of the 24 subjects, three tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and were quarantined accordingly. After six weeks, they tested negative for the virus, had built antibodies and had no remaining symptoms, enabling an efficient return to work. Conclusion This paper outlines the results of COVID-19 testing in a dental practice during the onset of the pandemic, and discusses possible strategies and protocols to gain certainty in the dental practice, assessing possible testing scenarios that can be performed in a primary healthcare setting.