Commentary on: Evaluation of an NHS practice-based minor oral surgery service

Abstract

Objectives To evaluate a pilot specialist practice-based minor oral surgery service. Methods Service monitoring data were analysed to evaluate activity, waiting times and outcomes. Patient satisfaction was assessed by a modified version of the Dental Visit Satisfaction Scale. Results Of 705 treatment appointments, 12.7% were not attended and treatment was not provided in another 11.6%. Mean waiting time from referral receipt to treatment was 6.8 weeks. Treatment provided included surgical removal of third molars, surgical removal of non-third molars and surgical endodontics (26.7%, 60.4% and 4.9% of cases, respectively). Antibiotics were prescribed in 15.0% of treatment cases and 2.3% of treatment cases required appointments for postoperative complications. The response rate for the satisfaction survey was 81%. All participants reported overall satisfaction and strongly agreed/agreed with positive attitudinal statements about the oral surgeon's communication/information giving, technical competence and understanding/acceptance. 77.8% were seen on time and 22.2% within 15 minutes of their appointment. Overall 74.1% felt the standard of service was better than they would expect from a hospital and none felt it was worse. Conclusion The findings of the evaluation suggest that specialist minor oral surgery can be successfully provided in dental practice and is acceptable to patients.