Assessment of original dental diagnostic program in the opinion of dentists

Abstract

Introduction: An increase of information, especially in the field of medicine and dentistry, has led to the development of areas related to diagnosis and treatment. Rapid pace of development means that doctors around the world want to practice evidence-based medicine with the latest research results. The condition for successful treatment is the correct diagnosis. Objectives: The aim of the study was to develop a computer algorithm for a dental office and evaluate dentists’ opinions about the computer algorithm created by the author for dental diagnostics. Material and methods: The research was carried out in a group of dentists in a private dentist’s office. Dentists performed treatment according to their well-known standards (group 1), then according to proposed algorithm (group 2), and filled a questionnaire comparing both methods. Results: Algorithm evaluation was performed by dentists on a group of 300 treated patients, with 156 women (52%) and 144 men (48%), and the average age was 34.13 years. For the majority of conducted examinations (88.67, 99%), dentists stated that the algorithm used during an interview and examination fulfilled their expectations. Statistically significantly higher time values needed to conduct medical interview in accordance with the proposed study algorithm were found in men compared to women (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The application of the proposed diagnostic algorithm was positively received by dental doctors. Most dentists considered working using the algorithm as facilitating the communication with the patient and increasing his participation in the treatment process. The conducted research indicated the need for a holistic approach to the patient, raising awareness of the impact of systemic diseases on the state of oral health.