THE IMPACT OF EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION ON THE QUALITY OF DENTAL CARE

Abstract

The quality of dental treatment is a complex and multi-component characteristic influenced by many factors, one of which is the professional competence of dental specialists. Nowadays, the focus is on the timely access of high-quality dental services for patients. The educational and professional qualification level of dentists is an important structural factor that influences the process and results of dental treatment. To achieve high quality clinical results and successful dental treatment of patients, following to generally accepted global clinical standards for the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases is essential. The aim of this scientific research is to study the influence of the educational and qualification level of dentists on the quality of dental services provided. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2025 to May 2026. Participants in the research study were given the opportunity to choose between two ways of filling out a questionnaire: an online questionnaire created using Google Forms or on a paper survey card. Participation in the survey is voluntary, and all responses are anonymous. The study consists of 529 patients from different settlement areas in Bulgaria. The questionnaire includes 33 questions regarding the quality of dental services, which patients rated on a Likert scale from 1 (dissatisfaction) to 5 (satisfaction). Data analyse processing was performed using SPSS 31.0 statistical software. For the purposes of the study, an index of the quality of dental services was constructed and Cronbach's α was calculated. The reliability and internal consistency of the individual questions forming the quality index were assessed. Data was based on the confidence level at 95% and probability of error is 5%. The study results show that the quality index improves as the professional status of the treating dental specialist increases. Continuing postgraduate education and the extensive clinical experience of dental specialists are considered in the scientific literature as two mutually complementary factors for success in providing high-quality dental treatment. Assessment of the quality of dental care is a key element for the effective management of dental services. Quality monitoring in dentistry identifies problems as well as areas in need of development and improvement. The implementation of new technologies and the evaluation of dental specialists' professional qualifications and competencies are essential factors influencing the quality of dental care. Providing high-quality dental services is a fundamental objective of contemporary dental practice, as it is associated with improved clinical outcomes, patient trust and long-term patient loyalty.