Perceptions of shared decision-making among patients and dental professionals

To compare perceptions of shared decision-making (SDM) among patients, dentists, and dental hygienists participating in the same dental treatment-planning encounter and to examine differences in perceived involvement across SDM components.

A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted at a university dental hospital and included 60 dentists, 30 dental hygienists, and 180 patients. Perceived SDM involvement was assessed using the validated Korean versions of the 9-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9) for patients and the Shared Decision Making Questionnaire-Physician Version (SDM-Q-Doc) for dental professionals. Responses were recorded on a 6-point Likert scale and transformed to a 0-100 scale, with higher scores indicating greater perceived involvement. Group differences and factors associated with SDM scores were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and linear regression models, respectively.

A total of 270 participants completed the survey. SDM scores were high across groups, ranging from 72 to 84 of 100. Patients reported significantly higher total SDM scores than dentists and dental hygienists. Across all respondent groups, recognition that a decision needed to be made and agreement on how to proceed received the highest ratings. In contrast, weighing treatment options was consistently rated lowest.

The need for a decision and agreement on the final decision were rated most positively across all groups. However, variation across specific components, particularly the weighing of treatment options, indicates the need for a more structured approach to enhance patient understanding and integrate patient preferences in routine dental care.

Differences in shared decision-making perceptions between patients and dental professionals highlight the importance of reflecting on clinical communication. Strengthening structured decision-making processes may enhance patient-centered care in dentistry.