Statistical Gems and Cautions From the Statistical Advisory Board of Clinical Oral Implants Research

Statistics is fundamental in implant dentistry research, playing a crucial role in study design, data analysis, and interpretation of findings. This editorial, authored by members of the Statistical Advisory Board of Clinical Oral Implants Research, aims to highlight common statistical pitfalls encountered in submitted manuscripts and provide practical recommendations to enhance the quality of statistical reporting.

In this editorial, study design considerations, sample size calculation, appropriate selection of statistical tests, multiplicity issues, handling hierarchical data structures, and best practices for data presentation are discussed. The importance of pre-registering research protocols, adhering to pre-specified analyses, and reporting effect sizes alongside p-values is emphasised. Additionally, common misinterpretations of statistical significance and the risks of extrapolating findings beyond their intended scope are addressed.

Statistical errors remain prevalent in the scientific literature, affecting the validity of results and evidence-based decision making.

By following guidelines, authors can improve the robustness and reproducibility of their research, ultimately contributing to higher-quality evidence in implant dentistry. Guidance for researchers, reviewers, and readers in handling statistical challenges is presented aiming to ensure that studies published in Clinical Oral Implants Research meet the highest methodological standards.