Factors affecting direction and strength of patient preferences for treatment of molar teeth with nonvital pulps. (10th December 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vernazza, C. R.; Steele, J. G.; Whitworth, J. M.; Wildman, J. R.; Donaldson, C.
• Is Part Of: International endontic journal. Volume 48:Number 12(2015:Dec.)
• Page Start: 1137
• Page End: 1146
• Publication Date: 2014-12-10
• Subjects: Endodontics -- Periodicals; 617.6342
• DOI: 10.1111/iej.12413
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-2885

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="iej12413-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <sec id="iej12413-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Aim</title> <p>To elicit the factors affecting willingness to pay (WTP) values for the preferred options of participants for dealing with a molar tooth with a nonvital pulp, a common but difficult problem.</p> </sec> <sec id="iej12413-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Methodology</title> <p>A total of 503 patients were recruited from dental practices in the North East of England and interviewed. Their preferred treatment option for a molar tooth with a nonvital pulp (endodontics, extraction and various prosthetic restorative options) and WTP for this preferred option were elicited. Factors affecting preferred option and WTP were analysed using econometric modelling.</p> </sec> <sec id="iej12413-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Overall, 53% of the sample wished to save the tooth with a mean WTP of £373. The variance in WTP was high. Of those opting for extraction, the majority chose to leave a gap or have an implant. The preferred option was influenced by previous treatment experience. WTP was only influenced by having a low income.</p> </sec> <sec id="iej12413-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusions</title> <p>The high level of variance in WTP and its relatively unpredictable nature pose difficult questions for policy makers trying to ensure the delivery of an equitable service. For dentists, it is important not to make assumptions about patient preference and strength of preference when making decisions. Ideally, WTP values should be considered alongside effectiveness data, and those on costs, in policy making.</p> </sec> </abstract>