Evidence-based Dentistry and Its Role in Caring for Special Needs Patients

Alan N Queen

doi:10.1016/j.cden.2016.02.002

Evidence-based Dentistry and Its Role in Caring for Special Needs Patients

Dent Clin North Am. 2016 Jul;60(3):605-11. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2016.02.002.

Author

Alan N Queen¹

Affiliation

¹ Department of Dental and Oral Medicine, NewYork Presbyterian/Queens Medical Center, 56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355, USA. Electronic address: Queensdentist@aol.com.

PMID: 27264853
DOI: 10.1016/j.cden.2016.02.002

Abstract

Evidence-based dentistry is a concept ideally suited and applicable to special needs dentistry. As the special needs of patients varies according to the individual, so should the way we evaluate our patient, prescribe a course of treatment, and implement that treatment plan. Future generations of dental students and residents should be trained in these concepts not just for patients with special needs, but also for the general patient population. It is imperative that the dental community not retreat in the face of what many deem to be "difficult" patients with special needs. Knowledge and training can overcome many barriers to treatment.

Keywords: Evidence-based dentistry; Special care dentistry; Special needs dentistry; Treatment accommodations.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Dental Care for Disabled / organization & administration*
Education, Dental
Evidence-Based Dentistry / organization & administration*
Humans