Aim: The aim of this study was to emphasize the evidence-based dentistry (EBD) concept to dental undergraduate & postgraduate students and also to provide an overview of EBD and its application to incorporate valid scientific evidence into clinical practice.
Methodology: A cross sectional multi-centric study was conducted among dental undergraduates and post graduates in the state of Uttar Pradesh. About 30 questions were circulated and a comparison was done to assess factors associated with application of EBD. All participants were informed about the purpose of the study.
Results: The undergraduates and postgraduates are awakening to the scientific universe, being essential both for students who want and do not want to pursue a career in this area. We found that students from different dental fields were unaware of the basic concepts of evidence-based health, such as risk of bias assessment of randomized clinical trials. The present study provided us with the knowledge, attitude and practice of EBD as students. Practical classes were done to familiarize students with the EBP process and to maximize their learning with regard to the clinical application of evidence.
Data collected during our survey reveals EBD as a supportive tool for educators and decision makers. Further we, found that lack of time was the most common obstacle identified by the participants applying EBD.
Conclusions: Teaching EBD is beneficial both for patients and for the qualification of future doctors, especially those who will not pursue an academic career. Application of EBD was associated with knowledge of PICO question formulation and previous EBD training. A lack of time was the most common obstacle identified by the participants applying EBD. Therefore, EBD educational programs should be developed for dental practitioners to enhance their knowledge and skills.