Dental Treatment Adjustments for Long COVID

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), describes a complex group of symptoms that persist for weeks or months following the initial recovery from COVID-19. These symptoms can affect multiple organ systems and significantly impact quality of life. For dental professionals, understanding how Long COVID manifests and how it may influence patient care is essential to ensuring safe, compassionate, and effective treatment. Patients recovering from COVID-19 may experience chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, altered taste and smell, headaches, and cognitive impairment, all of which can interfere with their ability to undergo dental procedures comfortably. Because dental visits can involve stress, airway management, and extended chair time, clinicians must adapt protocols to accommodate these lingering symptoms. This course provides an in-depth exploration of Long COVID, emphasizing its systemic impact, clinical presentation, and the dental implications that arise from it. Participants will learn to assess patient risk, adjust treatment approaches, and implement care strategies that support the health and comfort of individuals affected by this post-viral condition.