Are we ready for evidence-based prosthodontics? - A literature review

Abstract

Traditional methods will be rendered obsolete, if not supplemented by current techniques and evidence. This requires a clinician to continuously recognize, scrutinize and consolidate the best available scientific literature in the field. Continuous improvement in the quality of research conducted, as well as reporting the findings should be encouraged to improve upon current and future treatments. This review showcases the most prominent controversies in prosthodontics and how the current evidence answers the questions. A PubMed, Met line and google scholar search with the keywords, Evidence-based dentistry and Evidence-based Prosthodontics was done from the year 1960-2021. Meta-analysis of randomized control trials and systematic reviews related to the evidence in complete dentures, fixed partial dentures, implants and prosthodontics were considered in the inclusion criteria. Literature reviews and case reports were excluded from the search. Evidence-based practice is a new level of sophistication in the practice of dentistry. Rather than considering the cost of material or the individual preference of the operator, choosing the right technique to maximize clinical efficiency should be based on scientific evidence.