Dentists' experiences of immigrants as patients

The use of dental services by immigrants in Sweden has been the object of several recent studies, but no investigations have been made about immigrants as patients from the dentist's point of view. A questionnaire, including detailed questions about treatment of adult immigrant patients during 1983, was sent to all private practising dentists and PDS clinics in the 10 local council areas with the highest percentages of immigrants in Stockholm County. The response rate was 93%. All PDS clinics and 84% of the private practitioners had treated immigrants. Language difficulties, poor knowledge of dentistry, difficulties in keeping treatment times and exaggerated expressions of pain were the most frequent problems with immigrant patients. The need for treatment was considered to be generally higher among immigrants than native patients. Prophylaxis and periodontics were unanimously considered to be the most difficult treatment measures for immigrants. Better information to immigrants on dental disease and dental care and a better interpreter service were suggested to improve the situation.