Factors affecting the quality of endodontic treatment in general dental practice in Scotland: A qualitative focus group study

Khamuani, S., Ross, A. and Robertson, D. (2022) Factors affecting the quality of endodontic treatment in general dental practice in Scotland: A qualitative focus group study. British Dental Journal, 233(2), pp. 129-133. (doi: 10.1038/s41415-022-4475-4) (PMID:35869214) (PMCID:PMC9305044)

Abstract

Introduction: The quality of endodontic treatment worldwide is variable despite clear clinical guidelines being available. Aims: Identify the factors that affect the quality of endodontic treatment in general dental practice in Scotland and how to overcome the barriers identified. Methods: Four online focus group interview sessions were conducted in which a total of 16 participants were recruited, including general dental practitioners, endodontic specialists and educationalists. Topics for facilitated discussion were based on healthcare system theory and included education/training, patient factors, resources and equipment factors; themes were identified via template analysis. Results: A number of themes and subthemes affecting the quality of care are reported, including aspects to do with remuneration, time, education, training, support from secondary care and the impact of COVID-19. Conclusion: Findings support: increase practical experience for undergraduates; access to postgraduate mentoring and training; development of a managed clinical network to facilitate access to appropriately trained specialists; and increased remuneration to allow sufficient time and adequate equipment to achieve clinical standards.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Ross, Dr Alastair and Robertson, Mr Douglas
• Authors: Khamuani, S., Ross, A., and Robertson, D.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Dental School
• Journal Name: British Dental Journal
• Publisher: Nature Publishing Group for the British Dental Association
• ISSN: 0007-0610
• ISSN (Online): 1476-5373
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © The Author(s) 2022
• First Published: First published in British Dental Journal 233(2): 129-133
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License