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Oral Biofilm Analysis of Palatal Expanders by Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Published on: October 20, 2011
A case study in contesting the conventional wisdom: school-based fluoride mouthrinse programs in the USA.
J A Disney1, H M Bohannan, S P Klein
1School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7450.
Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology
|February 1, 1990
Summary
A major preventive dentistry program yielded results challenging existing public health practices and national policy. This analysis explores the controversy and suggests future approaches to minimize similar scientific dissemination challenges.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Preventive Dentistry
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Evidence-based practice in dentistry is crucial for effective public health.
- Prevailing national policies and public health practices may not always align with emerging research findings.
- Dissemination of scientific results can be complex and lead to controversy when findings challenge established norms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the dissemination process and outcomes of a large-scale preventive dentistry demonstration program.
- To analyze the controversy arising from program results that contradicted conventional wisdom, policy, and practice.
- To offer insights for managing scientific dissemination and minimizing controversy in the future.
Main Methods:
- The study involved a major preventive dentistry demonstration program.
- Results regarding effectiveness and costs of preventive procedures were collected and analyzed.
- A qualitative analysis of the ensuing controversy and reactions was conducted.
Main Results:
- The program provided evidence on the effectiveness and costs of common preventive dentistry procedures.
- The dissemination of results sparked significant controversy due to conflict with existing beliefs and policies.
- Analysis identified potential reasons for the negative reaction to the study's findings.
Conclusions:
- Scientific findings that challenge established public health practices can provoke controversy.
- Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are vital for the acceptance of new evidence.
- Strategies are needed to navigate and mitigate controversy during the dissemination of health research.
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