Abstract
Successful collaboration and effective communication between dental hygienists and dentists in oral healthcare may lead to optimal treatment outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate the professional relationship between dental hygienists (DHs) and dentists and its impact on the quality of patient care. This prospective study was conducted at the Specialized Dental Center, Dammam Medical Complex Hospital, Saudi Arabia, from November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. The survey included various oral health specialists, dental hygienists working closely with them in the public sector, regardless of age, gender, or prior work experience before dental treatment. Three separate surveys were created for dentists and dental hygienists, each containing closed-ended questions on demographics and pre-validated items regarding dentists’ and dental hygienists’ assessments. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 29. Multivariate principal component analysis was performed to evaluate standard features of the survey results. A total of 95 dentists and 95 dental hygienists participated. A majority of the DH participants (80%–90%) agreed with the DH contributions, practice and management skills, with a sum score index of 4.3 [SD = 1.1] and α = 0.92. The mean sum index for the perception of the dentist was 4.2 [SD = 1.1] and the alpha value was 94%. Most dental hygienists responded that DH plays a crucial role in clinical practice, contributions and management. Dentists’ views on responsibility and communication with dental hygienists were also found to be equally crucial in dental clinics.
Keywords: Collaboration, Dentist, Dental Hygienist, Oral Healthcare, Relationship, Treatment