Aim: The aim of this qualitative descriptive study was to identify the perceived barriers of Swiss dental hygienists (DHs) in providing domiciliary dental care (DDC) to care-dependent institutionalized (LTCF) older adults.

Methods and results: This study used a qualitative thematic analysis approach that elicited rich and in-depth information from participants. Twenty-two DHs (mean age: 46.5 ± 11.5) working in Switzerland were interviewed following a topic guide. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Six overarching major themes emerged: patient-related barriers, infrastructure-related barriers, difficult working conditions, LTCF-related barriers, financial factors, and factors related to training and education. Findings revealed that DDC provision required strong self-motivation and a service-oriented mindset, with care providers demonstrating empathy, dedication, and a genuine desire to help rather than solely for financial gain. The DHs who provided DDC were passionate about geriatric dentistry and/or strived to excel in this field.

Conclusion: This qualitative study concludes that improving domiciliary dental care by dental hygienists in Switzerland requires targeted strategies to enhance training, ensure adequate infrastructure, reduce workload, address financial and systemic barriers, and strengthen collaboration with long-term care facilities.