Patients' preferences regarding shared decision-making in prosthodontic treatment: a university clinic-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction Patient involvement in treatment decisions is central to shared decision-making in prosthodontics, yet preferences and perceptions may vary.Aims To evaluate patients' preferred and perceived roles in decision-making related to their prosthodontic treatment.Design Cross-sectional observational study.Setting University-based dental clinic offering prosthodontic care.Materials and methods Patients undergoing prosthodontic treatment completed a questionnaire incorporating the Control Preferences Scale (CPS) to assess their preferred and perceived roles in treatment decision-making. Data were analysed descriptively.Results Most patients preferred a passive (60.9%) or collaborative role (20.3%), with only 1.5% desiring an active role. In contrast, 26.5% perceived themselves as having actively participated in decisions. Patients treated by postgraduate clinicians reported greater active involvement (35.7%) compared to those treated by undergraduates (67.4% reported passive roles). Older patients exhibited a stronger preference for passive involvement.Discussion A mismatch between preferred and perceived roles suggests that patient engagement may evolve during treatment. Clinician experience and patient age significantly influenced perceived involvement, indicating a need for tailored communication strategies.Conclusion Although patients often initially prefer passive roles, involvement can increase with time and clinician expertise. Clinicians should adapt communication approaches to support evolving patient preferences and promote shared decision-making.