Young adults' views on dental care--a qualitative analysis

The aim of the present study was to determine young adults' views on dental care. The gathered data were gleaned from interviews and analysed in accordance with comparative method. It was possible to discern the views from two perspectives: the patients' opinions regarding costs in relation to given functions within dental care, and the attitudes to given functions in dental care per se. Costs for information and service were deemed questionable, whereas the costs for examination and treatment were accepted. The patients' stance was active with respect to information and treatment, whereas a greater degree of passivity prevailed within the areas of examination and service. According to this report, maintaining cheap dental care rates was deemed important. The patients questioned having to pay for information perceived as irrelevant to dental care. They expressed a hidden wish to assume an active role while being given more information, and to exercise greater influence with reference to own dental care, but were not in the habit of stating their views to dental staff. Thus, continuous patient satisfaction studies are vital in order to meet this group's needs. One suggestion for further research is to study how young adults regard dental care based on the theory presented.