1.2 Rationale and Evidence for Programs
Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Making decisions based on scientific evidence has become challenging in recent times because of the staggering amount of information available via the Internet and also because of the media’s reporting of study results that have not necessarily undergone a rigorous review process. Program staff must be able to identify information that is based on sound science and to exercise good judgment when making decisions. Systematic reviews can help program staff make this distinction.
The American Dental Association (ADA) states that “based on a hierarchy of levels of evidence, systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials constitute the highest level of current best evidence.” ADA also defines a systematic review as “a process of systematically locating, appraising, and synthesizing evidence from scientific studies in order to obtain a reliable overview. The aim is to ensure a review process that is comprehensive and unbiased. Findings from systematic reviews may be used for decision-making about research and the provision of health care.”
The School-Based Dental Sealant Program Manual will be updated on a routine basis and will reflect changes to the state of the science.
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