Evidence-based dentistry( EBD ) encourages dentists to base their treatment decisions on a combination of the best available scientific evidence, their own clinical expertise, and the individual needs and preferences of each patient.
This approach ensures that dental care is tailored to the specific requirements of the patient and is more likely to result in high-quality and patient-centered treatment. It's important for patients to choose their dentists wisely, considering their qualifications, experience, and the alignment of their proposed treatments with the principles of evidence-based dentistry.
EBD comprises three main components first described well by - Masic. et.al - 2008
Best Available Evidence: Dentists use scientific research and studies to determine which dental procedures and treatments are supported by reliable and high-quality evidence. They consider factors such as the type of study, where it was conducted, the sample size, the relevance of the study to the patient's condition, and whether it aligns with accepted norms. Dentists should use their critical thinking skills to evaluate the evidence.
Clinical Experience and Expertise: The dentist's own experience, training, and expertise play a crucial role in treatment decisions. Factors such as the number of years a dentist has been practicing, the frequency with which they perform a specific procedure, and their investment in continuous education and skill development all contribute to the quality of care they can provide.
Patient's Needs and Preferences: Each patient is unique, and their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances must be considered when determining the most appropriate treatment plan. This includes factors like previous dental experiences, cost considerations, time constraints, and any specific risks associated with a patient's oral health for example bruxism/grinding habit has huge implications for planning a treatment. The treatment plan may vary significantly from one patient to another, even if they share similar concerns or of same age.
In very simple terms:
Just because your friend Joe had a specific dental treatment doesn't mean it's the right choice for you. Your dental needs and circumstances may be different.
Don't assume that all dentists and dental practices are the same or that a particular treatment offered by a nearby dentist is the best option. Dentists have varying levels of expertise and may offer different treatment approaches. DO NOT BE BLINDED BY MARKETING GIMMICKS AND 5-STAR REVIEWS.
It's vital to research and choose your dentist wisely. Consider factors like their experience, skills, knowledge, and their ability to provide the most suitable and long-lasting treatment options for your individual needs.
It is in your best interest to know some of the options for treatment and then select the dentist that does that treatment well in your area.
Remember, your oral health and care is unique, and what works for one person may not be the best solution for another. Making informed decisions and selecting the right dentist can lead to better outcomes and satisfaction with your dental care, as explained well by Sadaf.et.al - 2019.
WHY IS IT HARD TO PRACTICE EBD?
There is no doubt that a gap exists between clinical practice and research. The evidence-based approach improves clinical decision-making and standard of care but the issue with incorporating for a dentist is
Finding times
Lack of resources
Lack of skill to understand the evidence is considered a major barrier to applying research-based evidence in practice.
If dental practitioners want to maximize their abilities to achieve excellence in practice and provide cost-effective quality services, they must develop strategies to enable them to use findings from relevant, well-designed, practice-oriented research studies.
SO I ENCOURAGE EVERY INDIVIDUAL TO DO THEIR OWN RESEARCH AND I HOPE THESE BLOGS AND EVIDENCE PRESENTED IN THE BLOGS, WILL DIRECT YOU TO MAKE THE DECISION REGARDING CHOOSING THE RIGHT DENTISTS AND THE RIGHT TREATMENT.
Comments