Evidence-based practice in removable prosthodontics.

This review of selected articles has discussed the best evidence from clinical studies pertaining to removable prosthodontics. The goal was to correlate recent literature in context with what is clinically significant for the general dentist practicing removable prosthodontics. The focus of this limited review should encourage more interest in seeking valid literature to support and incorporate evidence-based practices into daily prosthodontic treatment decisions. Prosthodontic treatment planning is a complex process that involves a combination of diagnostic information, patient desires, evidence-based outcome data, and a thorough review of the treatment alternatives (1). With appropriate skills and the availability of software to conduct a literature search, evidence-based practice is a powerful means for general dentists to establish the effectiveness of patient treatment decisions and enhance clinical knowledge and skills over the course of a professional career (5).