To determine the practicing arrangements of a representative sample of UK general dental practitioners.
Methods:
A 89-question postal questionnaire was distributed, in late 2007/early 2008, to 1000 dentists whose names and addresses were obtained by random selection from the GDC Register.
Results:
691 questionnaires were returned, of which 662 were useable. Of the respondents, 67% were male, 53% were practice principals and 53% of practices were in town or city centres. Single-handed practitioners accounted for 17% of respondents and the mean number of dentists per practice was 3.6 (S.D. 2.1). Typically, respondents' practices provided a mean of 26 (S.D. 18.4) patient care sessions per week, with each dentist treating an average of 15 (S.D. 7.4) patients per session. Hygienists typically treated 7 (S.D. 6.3) patients per session. Respondents stated that on average 57% of patients were treated under the NHS arrangements, with 28% being private, 7% independent, and 7% insurance-based. 73% of respondents stated that they used a computerized patient management system, 67% had an internet connection and 60% used email, principally for correspondence, ordering materials and other uses such as referrals and research. 45% of respondents owned an intraoral camera, with 48% of those using it routinely. Of new concepts, the use of nickel-titanium endo-files (61%), digital radiography and imaging (28%) and zirconia all-ceramic bridgework (27%) were the most frequently stated innovations used by respondents. Regarding health, the mean number of days for which respondents were absent because of illness was four (S.D. 18.5).
Conclusion:
The results of this questionnaire may be considered to provide a detailed and contemporary profile of current UK general dental practice.