Differences in treatment approach between Dutch paediatric dentists and general practitioners, a case control study

AIM: This case control study was to assess whether paediatric dentists perform significantly more diagnostic, preventive and curative care in a clinical setting then do general dental practitioners. METHODS: 16 paediatric dentists were approached and a matching control group of 16 general dental practitioners drawn from an insurance random list were selected based on matching age, practice composition and year of graduation. They were asked by mail to participate. Positive respondents were visited. All children seen during the visit were included in this study. During intra-oral inspection DMFS/dmfs was clinically scored, as were the availability of bitewings, gender, presence of fissure sealants, visibility of plaque and gingivitis and presence of fistulas. STATISTICS: Statistical analysis was carried out by using SPSS 15, p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Paediatric dentists treat a greater number of younger children (p<0.05), placed more restorations and sealants (p<0.01), take more bitewing radiographs (p<0.01) and give a similar level of care to all children irrespective of their age compared to children seen by general dental practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: Paediatric dentists perform significantly more diagnostic, preventive and curative care in the clinical situation for 0–6 year old children than do general dental practitioners.