Malta public perception towards the professional role of the dental hygienist compared to the professions of the dentist and dental assistant

Abstract

Aims: The professional role of the dental hygienist is part of a dynamic field, dentistry, which is continuously evolving and updating; this might create difficulties for people to understand the difference between a dental hygienist as compared to other dental team members. This research study will investigate the Maltese public opinion (and Gozitans) in order to gather data related to people’s perception of the role of dental hygienist, comparing it with the dentist and dental assistant professions. Methods: A descriptive research method was used in this cross-sectional study, with quantitative data collected through an online anonymous questionnaire (sent through social media such as Facebook) and a QR code linked directly to the Google form questionnaire. The sample population counted 130 participants, of which 8 were not included as working in dental clinics. The participants were distributed between the Southern, Central and Northern districts, and from the island of Gozo, with age ranging between 18 and 65 plus, chosen via non-probability convenience sampling. Results and Conclusion: The data collection included 122 questionnaires; results have shown that the public has correct knowledge concerning the dental hygienist’s scope of practice: 60% of the sample is aware of the degree needed to practice as a dental hygienist, the majority of participants acknowledged the various duties performed by the dental hygienist, with the exception of the administration of local anaesthesia (60.7% not aware); also, participants associated dental hygienist with the assisting role (53.3%). The overall oral health assessment duty performed by the dental hygienist was known mostly by male participants (p=0.020), and people with higher educational levels (p=0.003); also, the knowledge of dental hygienists giving smoking cessation advice was higher in male participants (p=0.004), probably given the higher number of male smokers (53%) as compared to females (31.5%). Employment status was a significant factor of knowledge regarding dental hygienist carrying out x-rays (p=0.050), deep cleanings (p=0.005) and diet advice (p=0.020). More awareness is needed to enhance dental hygienist’s scope of practice.