Patient Guide approx. 8 min

What does evidence-based dentistry mean for patients?

Not every treatment is equally well-documented. What evidence-based dentistry means, how to recognize it and why it matters for your decisions.

Evidenzbasiert Keine Werbung Österreich-spezifisch Kostenlos

Contents of this guide

What does evidence-based dentistry mean for patients? – clinical illustration

Häufige Fragen (FAQ)

Evidence-based dentistry (EBD) means that treatment decisions are based on the best available scientific evidence — combined with the clinical experience of the practitioner and the patient's preferences. It ensures that treatments are effective, safe and consistent with current research.

Characteristics of evidence-based practice: The dentist explains treatment alternatives and their evidence base, references guidelines, is transparent about success rates and risks, does not recommend treatments without clear indication, and seeks second opinions or refers to specialists for complex cases.

Experience-based medicine relies primarily on the practitioner's personal experience. Evidence-based medicine supplements this experience through systematic evaluation of scientific studies. Both approaches are not mutually exclusive — ideal treatment combines both.

Well-documented treatments: Dental implants (15-year survival rates >90%), periodontitis treatment (deep cleaning + follow-up), root canal treatment under microscope, caries prevention through fluoride. Less well-documented or controversial: some occlusion therapies, certain TMD treatments without clear diagnosis.

Clinical Partner

Consultation at Smile4Life

For a clinical assessment of your individual situation — in Vienna, 1010.

Visit Practice

Medical note: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice from a licensed dentist or specialist. The Institute for Implantology and Digital Dentistry Vienna is a non-profit, independent scientific platform — not a treatment facility. All content reflects current scientific literature; individual treatment decisions must always be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional.

Back to Guide Overview