Introduction: Focus group methods have been increasingly used in dental research. However, although focus group methods appear quite simple and easy to carry out, there are a number of complexities that need to be considered.
Method: The present integrative review was carried out to assess the usability of focus group methods for dental research.
Results: Three key themes were identified from the qualitative review: the complexity of the method; benefits of focus group research for dentistry; and, the nature of the quality controls employed.
Conclusion: A key strength of using focus groups is that they can enhance qualitative and quantitative methodologies by helping to clarify, extend, qualify, or challenge what has been found.