Do Canadian dentists find dental research useful?

Area of Science:

• Dental Public Health
• Evidence-Based Dentistry
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) and the Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis (IMHA) collaborated on this study.
• Understanding the perceived utility of dental research among practicing dentists is crucial for bridging the gap between research and clinical practice.
• This study addresses the theme of research utility in dentistry, forming the first part of a three-article series.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Canadian dentists' perceptions regarding the utility and impact of dental research.
• To assess the extent to which research findings influence clinical practice decisions among Canadian dentists.

Main Methods:

• A national survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to all dentists in Canada.
• The questionnaire was included in the December 2001 edition of the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association (JCDA).
• Data were collected from 2,788 returned questionnaires by April 1, 2002, yielding an approximate 16% response rate.

Main Results:

• A substantial majority of respondents (82%) believe that dental research significantly impacts the dental health of Canadians.
• An overwhelming 98% of dentists reported modifying aspects of their clinical practice subsequent to being informed by research outcomes.
• The findings underscore a strong perceived value and practical application of dental research within the Canadian dental community.

Conclusions:

• Canadian dentists largely perceive dental research as highly valuable and impactful on public dental health.
• Research findings demonstrably influence and lead to changes in clinical dental practice.
• The study highlights the importance of disseminating research to practitioners to enhance evidence-based dental care.