Dental practice in the UK in 2015/2016. Part 4: changes since 2002?

Area of Science:

• Dental Practice Management
• Clinical Dentistry
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The demographic profile and practice characteristics of UK general dental practitioners (GDPs) have evolved over time.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for assessing the future of dental care provision and adoption of new technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in the demographic profile, practice arrangements, and utilization of clinical techniques and materials among UK GDPs between 2002 and 2015.
• To identify trends in National Health Service (NHS) versus private patient care and the adoption of modern dental technologies.

Main Methods:

• Anonymous self-report questionnaires were distributed to UK-based GDPs in 2002, 2008, and 2015.
• Validated questionnaires collected data on demographics, practice ownership, patient payment methods, and the use of specific clinical techniques and materials.
• Response rates of 70%, 66%, and 78% were achieved across the survey years.

Main Results:

• A notable decrease in male practitioners and practice principals was observed from 2002 to 2015.
• National Health Service (NHS) provision dropped significantly from 86% in 2002 to 50% in 2015.
• High adoption rates for digital radiography (74%) and advanced materials like nickel-titanium files (80%) and zirconia-based bridgework (47%) were reported by 2015.

Conclusions:

• UK general dental practice has seen a substantial reduction in NHS service provision and a shift in practitioner roles.
• UK dentists demonstrate a continuous commitment to innovation, readily adopting new clinical techniques and materials.
• The findings highlight significant practice evolution, impacting dental care delivery and patient access to advanced treatments.