What role should dentists play in COVID-19 and HPV vaccinations? Prior research has evaluated patient perspectives in various vaccination campaigns (Dean et al. 2022), but this is the first cross-sectional study to compare patient attitudes relating to dentists administering vaccines for COVID-19, the first to compare patient attitudes to multiple vaccinations, and the first to compare the role of any health professional between COVID-19 and HPV. The goal of this study was to validate and administer a survey to assess patient beliefs and attitudes regarding the role of a dentist in the vaccinations for COVID-19 and HPV.

A previously published questionnaire was adapted and validated to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of results and data, as well as maximize clarity and effectiveness of the final instrument. The survey was distributed to 600 eligible participants aged 18-45 years old throughout the dental school waiting rooms and other locations around Philadelphia. The results of the survey distribution revealed that the majority of patients would feel comfortable with their dentist having a role in vaccine-related efforts. However, patients were more informed about COVID-19 vaccines than HPV vaccines, as well as more comfortable discussing and receiving COVID-19 vaccines from their dentist. This research highlights a need for increased education about HPV and its relation to oral health, as well as presenting the opportunity for dentists to play a greater role in disease prevention and patient education through vaccine-related efforts