Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was one of the most disruptive events in modern healthcare, and dentistry was uniquely affected due to its reliance on aerosol-generating procedures and close patient contact. This review highlights how the pandemic reshaped dentistry, transitioning the field from crisis management to long-term transformation. Enhanced infection control protocols, including advanced personal protective equipment, air purification, and patient screening, redefined safety standards within dental practice. Patient care delivery shifted toward teledentistry, minimally invasive and non-aerosol procedures, and prioritization of emergencies, while patient anxiety and fear of infection reduced routine visits. Dental education underwent a rapid transition to online learning, virtual simulations, and remote continuing education, although reduced clinical exposure remained a challenge. Long-term transformations included accelerated adoption of digital dentistry tools such as CAD/CAM, intraoral scanners, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence, as well as the permanent role of teledentistry in preventive and follow-up care. Overall, COVID-19 accelerated the modernization of dental practice, emphasizing safety, digital integration, and preventive strategies, leaving dentistry more resilient, technologically advanced, and interconnected with broader healthcare systems.