Communication Practices in Dental Providers in California

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between current communication practices used by California (CA) dentists and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) constructs: attitude, social norms, and perceived behavioral control. Methods: A mixed methods study was conducted using a sample of CA dentists. The California Dental Providers Communication Survey (CDPCS) was sent electronically and via the postal service to dentists in five counties in southern CA. Results: Out of 2,500 surveys, 103 responding via paper surveys (response rate: 21%) and 5 responding via email survey (response rate: 0.3%). Findings suggest dentists are using a variety of communication methods with their patients. Participant attitudes suggest strong intent for engaging in discussions with patients about oral health behaviors and their communication practices are influenced by professional norms. However, participants question whether these discussions will result in behavior change and often delegate this responsibility to allied dental team members, suggesting a lower level of perceived behavioral control. Conclusion: The CA dental providers in this study reported using a variety of communication techniques while communicating OHB, with the majority employing strategies of motivational interviewing.