This is the second of a two-part series addressing the use of evidence-based decision making (EBDM) in the use of home bleaching.  In Part 1, a case scenario demonstrated the skills involved in (1) structuring a clinical question and (2) conducting an online search using PubMed.1 Part 2 demonstrates the third and fourth steps in the EBDM process, i.e., (3) critical appraisal to assess the validity of a study and (4) applying that information to clinical decision making.  This 4-step approach to EBDM recognizes that clinicians can never be completely current with all conditions, medications, materials, and products.  Thus, EBDM provides a mechanism for addressing these gaps in knowledge in order to provide the best care possible.

Keywords: Evidence-based decision making, EBDM, evidence-based practice, critical appraisal

Citation:  Forrest JL, Miller SA.  Evidence-Based Decision Making in Action: Part 2 – Evaluating and Applying the Clinical Evidence.  J Contemp Dent Pract 2003 February;(4)1:042-052.