Patient preferences for dental clinical attire: a cross-sectional survey in a dental hospital

Aims and objectives This cross sectional descriptive study was designed to survey patient opinion towards dental clinical attire, name badges and commonly used cross-infection control measures. Method Patients attending a dental hospital for a consultation appointment were asked to complete a questionnaire accompanied by photographs of models portraying a range of clinical attire. A representative sample of patients completed 188 questionnaires over a four week period. Results The study found that the majority of patients felt clinical attire was important and that they preferred dental professionals to wear name badges. The majority of patients also preferred dentists to use both safety glasses and face masks. When asked to indicate which clinical attire was most appropriate for a consultant/specialist to wear, the overwhelming opinion was that of smart dress accompanied with a white coat. In addition, most respondents wished their dentist to wear a traditional white, dental tunic. Concluding remarks It is hoped that this study will be informative for the dental team and that the results will be taken into consideration when considering appropriate clinical attire in accordance with patient opinions.