Measuring oral health self perceptions as part of a concise patient survey

To investigate the measurement of oral health self perceptions, as part of a concise patient survey, and to consider the potential value of including this aspect in survey instruments.

In 2011, the data collected from 42,794 patients attending 276 practices participating in a voluntary accreditation programme patient survey were reviewed, with a particular emphasis on three oral health impact questions (OHIQs) included in the instrument. These three questions were about comfort (pain), function and dental appearance.

Patient self perceptions of oral health varied with age. For each of the three OHIQs the percentage of patients reporting 'ideal' health fell with age to some extent, although for each of the OHIQs the percentage of patients reporting 'unacceptable' health remained below 3% and varied little with age. Statistically significant variations from the mean scores for these OHIQs were observed for some of the participating practices, which would not be explained by age variations in their patient sample alone.

Patient surveys are a useful opportunity to elicit collective feedback from patients on self perceived oral health. When results are benchmarked they can inform practices, particularly when reviewed together with additional relevant data, of opportunities to develop clinical services to produce still higher standards of oral health and wellbeing for their patients.