Inviting You to De-Mystify Dentistry
I am sure that many of you have been confused about the many 'FACTS' that are claimed by dental professionals, social media influencers, scientists, dental product manufacturers or even news articles. With so many assertions, myths and recommendations flying around, it can become tricky to know who to trust!
FOR TREATMENTS - As a younger dentist, I tended to blindly believe what I was by seniors in the profession, trusting their expertise and knowledge without question. Over time, however, I came to see that many dentists have a difference of opinion from each other.
For example, a single tooth problem can be dealt with in 3 different ways. Thus, trusting the opinion of one person (no matter how senior) no longer seemed a wise method of learning. Instead, I started delving into scientific research that could help me make my decisions on treatments. With age, wisdom, and a greater understanding of dentistry, I now base my work on established research and guidelines that align with the needs of my patients.
FOR PRODUCTS - With the vast range of dental products on the market, I (like many people) have experienced a great deal of confusion. Now, I have taken it upon myself to look at the research involved in each field before I make any decisions, be it to use a product for myself or a recommendation to my patients.
Moreover, I make a point of sifting through to see if the research is biased (for instance, if it was funded by people who benefit from a certain outcome, or if the researchers are stating something that drastically differs from the industry norm). If somebody has a product to sell, they are unlikely to prioritise your interests!
REMEMBER: NOT ALL RESEARCH IS CREATED EQUAL
Please check through my blog to understand how to assess the quality of any research you find. This assessment is primarily based on the way in which research was conducted. However it is also concerned with considering the institution the research came from, who conducted it, which journal published it, how many participants were involved, and so on…
While conducting my own research for this website, largely to compile the 'Riz Recommends' section, I decided to put together the information, so that it would be helpful for others to do their research and come to their own conclusions.
So this is a list of the 500+ articles I have been through in the last year to help me make decisions on recommending products, but also some topics that may help you to verify fact (including those that I offer).
REMEMBER: AN OPINION IS THE LOWEST FORM OF EVIDENCE, EVEN WHEN IT COMES FROM AN EXPERT!
Let me know if this introduction to evidence-based medicine has helped you, or if any of my opinions are contrary to what you believe. If I am wrong, I would love to know and be corrected! But, remember, it has to be backed by evidence better than my own.
Hope to hear from some of you,
Thoughtfully,
Riz
