Internet resources for dentistry: Utilization of the internet to support professional growth, decision making, and patient care

The use of computers as an information resource in dentistry has grown dramatically over the past ten years. Fueled by the availability of more powerful computers, societal acceptance of computer-based resources, and the development of the Internet, millions of documents now provide a tremendously important repository of information for healthcare providers. Those involved in delivery of dental care need to know how to access and use this information for their professional development and to support clinically related activities. This paper presents issues related to the use of the Internet. It also provides information on the use of search engines to find resources (websites) on the Internet and descriptions of some available resources of interest to those involved in oral healthcare.