Objective To describe the barriers identified by individuals from minority ethnic communities resident in the United Kingdom to their use of dental services. Method Focus group discussions were held with individuals from minority ethnic groups. Data were analysed using the technique of content analysis on the basis of categories defined by the researchers. Findings Barriers to regular attendance identified by participants included: language, a mistrust of dentists, cost, anxiety, cultural misunderstandings, concern about standards of hygiene. The type of barrier identified differed between ethnic groups, though mistrust of dentists was common to all groups. Conclusions The findings confirm previous research identifying barriers to the use of dental services. However, for the first time in the United Kingdom, it has been suggested that the nature of the perceived barriers varies across ethnic groups. These findings have implications for attempts to increase use of dental services among individuals from minority ethnic communities.
Dietary assessment in minority ethnic groups: a systematic review of instruments for portion-size estimation in the United Kingdom
