Level of knowledge about biosafety in dental care of Peruvian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: It is important for dentists to be aware of biosafety protocols to minimize the occupational risk of COVID-19 transmission. Objective: To determine the level of knowledge of Peruvian dentists regarding biosafety protocols for dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study that evaluated 240 dentists in Metropolitan Lima (120 general dentists and 120 specialists). A questionnaire consisting of 20 single-choice questions was developed. The level of knowledge was classified as high, medium, and low. Variables such as age, sex, years of work experience, work sector, and university of origin were analyzed. The Fisher and Pearson chi-square tests were used for categorical variables, and the Student T tests were used for numerical variables, depending on compliance with the assumptions. Results: It was found that 70.8% (n=170/240) of dentists had a medium level of knowledge, 22.1% (n=53/240) had a low level, and 7.1% (n=17/240); had a high level. The average overall knowledge level was 12.46 ± 2.72. Specialists (13.38 ± 2.55) had a higher overall average than general dentists (11.53 ± 2.57); p< 0.001. Conclusion: Dentists' level of knowledge about biosafety protocols for dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic was predominantly medium.