Gender predisposition in patient attitudes and preferences during dental treatment – A mixed method study from Lahore, Pakistan

TL;DR

This study from Lahore, Pakistan, found that patients have gender-based preferences for dentists, influenced by cultural stereotypes and perceptions of competence.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into how gender predispositions affect patient attitudes and preferences in dental treatment in a specific cultural context.

Findings

Male dentists were preferred for decisiveness and experience, while female dentists were favored for sensitivity and preventive care.

Strong associations were found between patient preferences and factors like aesthetics, cleanliness, and communication.

Cultural and religious factors, along with stereotypes, significantly influenced patient preferences for dentists based on gender.

Abstract

To investigate predispositions, focusing on the impact of the gender of dentists on patient attitudes and exploring how these predispositions affect dental care.

A cross-sectional, mixed-method study was planned that surveyed 383 patients from July 2023 to July 2024 at three private dental hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. A combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques was used, including thematically transcribing recordings to identify recurring themes related to gender predispositions in dental care.

The study found significant gender-based preferences; male dentists were preferred for attributes like decisiveness, experience, and time management, with 37% (n=142) respondents viewing them as more confident and experienced. Female dentists were favored for aesthetics, sensitivity, and preventive care, with 44% (n=172) appreciating their attention to detail and 52% (n=201) valuing their sensitivity and caring nature. Substantial associations were seen for attention to aesthetics (p ≤ 0.04), concern for cleanliness (p ≤ 0.03), multiple visits (p ≤ 0.00), sharing dental fears (p ≤ 0.00), discussing general health (p ≤ 0.00) and financial issues (p ≤ 0.00), and understanding problems (p ≤ 0.00). Qualitative analysis found preferences under five themes including comfort level, perception of competence, cultural and religious factors, trust and confidence in treatment, bias and stereotypes.

The study findings highlight gender predispositions in dental care, influenced by cultural stereotypes. Addressing these biases is crucial for improving patient satisfaction and ensuring equitable treatment. The study further suggests that both patients and dental professionals should focus on qualifications and skills rather than gender, with further research needed to explore the deeper impact of these predispositions on patient perceptions.