Introducing evidence-based dentistry to dental students using histology

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Evidence-Based Dentistry
• Critical Thinking Skills

Background:

• The expansion of evidence-based dentistry (EBD) is crucial for dental profession development.
• Increased emphasis on critical thinking is needed in dental education, as highlighted by the American Dental Education Association.
• Early introduction and reinforcement of critical thinking skills are essential throughout the dental curriculum.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an educational approach for enhancing critical thinking skills in early dental curriculum.
• To integrate critical thinking development within a traditional histology course.
• To foster a stronger foundation for evidence-based dentistry (EBD) and critical evaluation of research.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing medical and dental research literature to reinforce histology concepts.
• Implementing peer-to-peer presentations for critical evaluation of research studies.
• Applying this method within the early basic science curriculum.

Main Results:

• Increased student exposure to critical thinking in basic science courses.
• Improved ability to critically evaluate research studies and published articles.
• Strengthened foundation for evidence-based dentistry (EBD) and critical thinking.

Conclusions:

• This educational strategy effectively enhances critical thinking skills in dental students.
• The approach can be adapted to various basic science courses.
• It contributes to developing competent dental professionals skilled in EBD and research evaluation.