Investigating what factors patients take into account when choosing their dentist in the Maltese Islands

Abstract

The present study analyses the factors related to the dentist and dental service, considered important by participants in the Maltese Islands. Numerous studies have been conducted in various countries on this topic, however, there is limited evidence on these factors in Malta. Therefore, this study was designed to address and fill this gap in knowledge. The study include three main objectives. First, it aims to identify how certain sociodemographic characteristics influence the patients’ choice of the dentist. Second, it seeks to identify the factors that the general population perceives as being the most important when choosing a dentist. Lastly, the study intends to identify the factors that the general population perceives as being the most important when choosing a dental service, based on five dimensions of service quality. These objectives were accomplished by a descriptive research design. Quantitative data was collected through the distribution of a questionnaire to the general population. This questionnaire was based on three cross-sectional studies and divided into the five dimensions of quality service. The questionnaire was distributed online through social media platforms and some hard copies were distributed in three different local councils across Malta. A total of 408 questionnaires were completed. The data was gathered and analysed using SPSS, with key statistical tests including ChiSquared, Monte Carlo Simulation, Bonferroni correction, Friedman, and Pairwise comparisons. A statistical association was deemed significant when the obtained probability was equal to or less than 0.05. The findings of this study concluded that the selection of a dentist was primarily influenced by nationality and location, whereas other factors such as cleanliness, the quality of dental materials and supplies, and the overall standard of treatment were the most crucial factors in choosing a dental practice. Furthermore, this study assessed service quality based on five dimensions. Responsiveness and reliability were the most significant, followed by assurance, empathy, and tangibility. Moreover, these findings indicated that patients consider both individual factors and broader service quality dimensions. Despite the limitations of the study, valuable information was obtained. This research offers valuable insights for dental practitioners into the key attributes that patients in the Maltese Islands prioritise when seeking dental care.