Epidemiology for the practicing orthodontist.
Epidemiological principles and biostatistical techniques are essential when performing research in human populations. This article describes the methods used for designing valid and reliable research and the statistical concepts necessary to analyze data from such studies. Specifically, the overview includes the different epidemiological study designs, sampling techniques, sources of bias encountered in research studies, and statistical tests to assess significance. It is hoped that clinical orthodontists will benefit from this review.
Nelson
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Department of Community Dentistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-4905, USA.
D015982:Bias; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D018865:Dental Research / Q000379:methods*; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D006801:Humans; D009970:Orthodontics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design; D012494:Sampling Studies