Method : A questionnaire was mailed to 2200 dentists randomly selected from the 2005 Australian Dental Association directory. In order to better understand dentist work satisfaction, ‘gap analysis’ was conducted, which involved comparing ratings of satisfaction with ratings of importance across each of the work-related attributes. Higher gap scores indicated that satisfaction with a work-related attribute was less than the rated importance of that attribute.
Results: An adjusted response rate 61.9% as achieved. Most attributes exhibited a gap between rated importance and satisfaction, with the largest gaps relating to personal time, relationships with staff, intrinsic satisfaction, relationships with patients and remuneration. Older dentists (55+ years) tended to have smaller gap scores for personal time, relationships with staff, community, remuneration and resources available than their younger counterparts. Private sector dentists had lower gap scores on autonomy, remuneration and resources available than public sector dentists. Gap scores were lower on administrative responsibilities and higher on resources for male compared to female dentists.
Conclusion: There are a number of work-related attributes that require attention in order to improve job satisfaction among dentists in Australia. Appropriate steps to fill or narrow the gaps should be considered.