Evidence-Based Dentistry

Evidence-based dentistry is the use of current best evidence in making decisions about thecare of individual patients. Carrying out evidence-based dentistry requires that the practitionerquestion and think about what they are doing, particularly in this era of expectation thatdentists will keep abreast of new techniques and developments. Information needs to beassessed, and its validity determined. To properly practice EBD means that time must bespent searching and assessing the literature, and information from any source should bequestioned. By formulating a clinical question, carrying out an efficient literature search,evaluating the literature, and when appropriate, applying it to patient care, dentists can meetthe challenges of continuing to provide quality care in a rapidly changing environment. Evidence-based care in modern era represents a shift in the practicejudgment basedon scientific evidence and not the blind adherence to previous rules.