[Patient satisfaction as outcome measure in clinical studies of oral health].

Patient based outcomes are increasingly used to supplement clinical parameters in clinical studies. Patient satisfaction is one of the most important of these outcomes. Patient satisfaction is not equivalent with quality of life. Patient satisfaction can be measured with a questionnaire approach, using items tapping specific aspects--chewing function or esthetics--of dental treatment. Questionnaire results are scored using either Likert or visual analog scales. Clinical studies confirm that patient satisfaction performs well as a patient based outcome for the evaluation of dental treatments. Significant differences exist in patient satisfaction with different implant prostheses. Removable prostheses are perceived as easier to clean while fixed ones are rated more stable. these factors have a significant influence on the overall satisfaction with treatment and on the choice of treatment. Results from studies using patient based outcomes can generate improved information for patients, providers and insurers concerning treatment alternatives, and help to avoid treatment failures.