Satisfaction with dental services among Brazilian school children

Abstract

This research aimed to explore factors associated with the satisfaction of children and adolescents with dental services, comparing two satisfaction measurement instruments: a single question and a bidimensional questionnaire. This cross-sectional study included all students (n = 325) aged 9 years or older in a small town in Brazil, who were invited to complete a self-reported questionnaire. The satisfaction with the service used was regressed on age, sex, family income, type of service (public or private), and waiting times. Ordered logistic regression estimated odds ratio (OR). Among the evaluated students, 63%–73% were satisfied with their most recent dental visit. In both the single-question instrument and the dentist dimension of the bidimensional questionnaire, using private dental services was associated with greater satisfaction (OR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.26-4.02 and OR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.01-3.19). Lower satisfaction was reported by those who experienced prolonged waiting times (no/yes) (single question: OR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.24-0.75; dentist dimension: OR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.17-0.51; ambiance dimension: OR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.18-0.60). This work showed consistency between the questionnaires in most assessed aspects. While even a short instrument offers essential information about patient satisfaction, the bidimensional tool excels in identifying areas for improvement. The results underscore the need to optimize work processes to reduce waiting times, address issues related to the professional-patient relationship, and enhance treatment effectiveness, particularly in public settings.