title: Evaluation of the orthodontic component of the hypodontia care pathway.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This study evaluated patients' experiences of the Hypodontia Care Pathway at a large teaching hospital at key stages: specifically patient expectations/experience following the diagnosis of hypodontia and then patient satisfaction with the orthodontic care received and the outcome at the end of active orthodontic treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 hypodontia patients following completion of orthodontic treatment but prior to any planned prosthodontic treatment commencing. Interviews were analysed qualitatively, using a framework approach.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The framework analysis identified four main themes: perceptions of treatment, impact of the original malocclusion and the treatment process, the care team and communication. The themes were then further divided into subthemes.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There was a large amount of positive feedback and the importance of the patient-clinician relationship was evident throughout. Where issues of concern were identified, these related mainly to communication and areas were identified where change could take place in the future.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Positive feedback was received and the importance of patient-clinician rapport was highlighted in all interviews. The main areas that could be enhanced related to the importance of ensuring optimum communication, particularly with a cohort of patients who are often undergoing complex multidisciplinary treatment. Recommendations for the service have been made.
authors.affiliation: a University College London Eastman Dental Institute , UK.
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: O'Keeffe
authors.affiliation: a University College London Eastman Dental Institute , UK.
authors.forename: Joanne M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Collins
authors.affiliation: b Orthodontics , UCL Eastman Dental Institute , 256 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8LD , UK.
authors.forename: Susan J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Cunningham
mesh_terms: D000848:Anodontia / Q000628:therapy*; D003142:Communication; D006801:Humans; D008310:Malocclusion; D017060:Patient Satisfaction
keywords: Hypodontia; care pathway; impact; patient satisfaction; qualitative research