Quality of dental care.

Studies on the quality of dental care have included several models that view the subject broadly, far beyond technical quality. However, most studies are based on some variation of the structure, process, outcome approach. In addition, there has been presentation of data on the quality and distribution of services, as well as information tied more directly to evaluation of clinical performance. The wide variations found within the reports raise cause for concern about the adequacy of care. The development of quality assurance activities in dental schools has been discussed. However, as yet there has been little application of quality assessment and assurance measures to the vast majority of dental practices.