Which term describes the use of the best available research in dental decision-making?

• A. Evidence-based dentistry
• B. Traditional dentistry
• C. Preventive dentistry
• D. Clinical dentistry

Answer: (A)

Using the best available research to guide dental decisions means practicing evidence-based dentistry. This approach combines high-quality research evidence with clinical expertise and the patient’s preferences to choose treatments most likely to produce good outcomes. It involves a deliberate process: ask a clear clinical question, search for relevant studies, critically appraise the validity and applicability of the evidence, apply the findings to the patient’s situation, and evaluate the results. The strength of evidence is ranked so systematic reviews and randomized trials guide practice first, with other studies filling gaps as needed. This method reduces reliance on habit or tradition and keeps care aligned with current science and patient values. Other approaches focus more on routine practices or prevention concepts without explicitly integrating best research into decision-making, so they don’t capture the full evidence-based framework.