Scientific evidence is considered when it is appropriate and in the context of an individual patient's circumstances. It is an aid to the clinical decision-making process that can improve opportunities for achieving successful outcomes. It is not unique to medicine or any specific health discipline, but it represents a concise way of referring to the application of evidence to the clinical decision-making process. This section will include research and polices supporting preventive and therapeutic procedures most often performed by dental hygienists. There is increasing evidence that shows high variability in traditional practice.
Dental hygiene is no exception.
In recent national studies on dental hygienists knowledge, opinions and practices related to caries prevention 6 and oral cancer prevention and early detection 7 inconsistencies among dental hygienists' knowledge and practice were identified. In both studies, results indicated that an improved understanding of etiology and the scientific evidence of appropriate preventive procedures would allow dental hygienists to better prevent and manage these diseases. Includes links to many other online sites. 1997 Health Evidence Bulletin-Wales Includes evidence related to eight oral health conditions. Evidence-based medicine and the Internet.