Influence of Patient Behavioral Factors on Clinical Decision-Making and Treatment Planning Among Dental Practitioners in Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Clinical decision-making in dental practice is influenced by multiple factors, including patient behavior, communication, and cooperation. Understanding how behavioral characteristics affect treatment planning may improve patient management and support evidence-based clinical practice. This study aimed to assess the influence of patient behavioral factors on clinical decision-making and treatment planning among dental practitioners and to evaluate whether these perceptions differ according to professional characteristics. An online cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among dental practitioners. The survey evaluated the influence of different patient behavioral factors on clinical decision-making and treatment planning. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and Chi-square test were used where appropriate. Data from 185 respondents were analyzed. The questionnaire demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.733). Good patient communication (mean = 4.51) and patient cooperation in treatment selection (mean = 4.04) were identified as the most influential factors affecting clinical decision-making, followed by treatment delays related to patient behavior (mean = 3.82), aggressive patient behavior (mean = 3.61), and ethical challenges during treatment planning (mean = 3.55). No statistically significant differences were observed between practitioners from private and government sectors regarding the impact of patient behavior on clinical decision-making (all P > 0.05). Likewise, years of professional experience did not significantly influence responses across most survey items, although the influence of patient questioning on treatment choices approached statistical significance (P = 0.050). No significant association was found between practitioners’ specialty and the occurrence of negative clinical outcomes (P = 0.961). Patient behavioral factors represent important considerations in dental treatment planning and clinical decision-making. Dental practitioners appear to share similar perceptions regarding the impact of patient behavior regardless of professional background. Integrating behavioral assessment and effective communication strategies into dental practice may enhance patient-centered care and support more individualized treatment planning.