Skill-mix in Dentistry in Wales

Changing patterns of disease and patient care needs have prompted a review of dental care delivery.

Changes in roles provide potential for dentists to focus on complex therapeutic activities while dental hygienists/therapists, for example, deliver preventive, educational and general health promotion services. However, studies have shown that role-extension and delegation of tasks is not widespread within the UK.

Aims

This study aimed to examine the use of extended duties for DCPs within general dental practices in Wales. We explored patterns of DCP employment, their range of duties and reasons for, and barriers to, role extension.

Data sources

All dental practices holding an NHS contract within Wales were invited by email to complete a survey. Participants were requested to submit only one survey per practice.