The Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Hygienists' Stress and Workplace Conditions in Japan

Abstract

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in late 2019 and led to unprecedented global lockdowns, disrupting numerous industries, including dentistry. This study aimed to investigate the practicing conditions, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and impact of the pandemic on dental hygienists (DHs) in Japan, where strict lockdowns were not enforced but compliance to reduce infection spread was high, and healthcare clinics remained open.

Methods: This cross-sectional study utilised an online survey distributed to 354 dental hygiene vocational school graduates in Tokyo, Japan, between May 9 and June 5, 2022. The questionnaire, adapted from a New Zealand Dental & Oral Health Therapists Association survey, collected data on demographics, practicing conditions, the impact of COVID-19 on DHs, personal protective equipment usage, and stress levels during different COVID-19 waves.

Results: Out of 354 DHs, 77 (21.8%) provided valid responses. Most (94.8%) worked in Tokyo and neighbouring areas, with 85.7% working at private institutions. The COVID-19 pandemic led to ceasing work (11.3%), reduced working days (27.3%), decreased patient visits (49.4%), and changes in personal protective equipment usage. High-stress levels peaked during the first wave (46.8%) and fell during the fifth (37.7%) and sixth (11.7%) waves. The most common stress factors were related to inhibiting stress relief, infection risk, and protection.

Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted DHs' working conditions, personal protective equipment usage, and stress levels in Japan. Despite not facing a strict lockdown, DHs, who have experienced detrimental changes in the work environment, will need post-pandemic support that considers droplet infection protection and practitioner well-being.

Keywords: dental hygiene; mental health; occupational stress; pandemics; personal protective equipment; working conditions.