Evidence-based dentistry: concepts and implementation.
Evidence-based dentistry is the use by dentists of best research evidence, clinical judgment and patient values to guide practice. This article focuses on methods dentists can use to collect the best relevant evidence. Using the examples of systemic fluoridation and fluoridated dentifrices, the authors illustrate a five-step process of: 1) asking answerable questions; 2) conducting a systematic search; 3) critically appraising the literature; 4) applying results to practice; and 5) evaluating outcomes.
Niederman
Richard
R
Forsyth Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry, The Forsyth Institute, 140 The Fenway, Boston, MA, USA. rniederman@forsyth.org
Richards
Derek
D
D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003729:Dental Care; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control; D018865:Dental Research / Q000592:standards; D003802:Dentifrices / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003813:Dentistry; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000379:methods; D005457:Fluoridation; D005459:Fluorides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007600:Judgment; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010358:Patient Participation
D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D003802:Dentifrices; D005459:Fluorides