The implications of protocol-based care on dental services in the military.

Downsizing, limited resources, and increasing costs provide challenges to the military health system. Variations in the diagnosis and treatment of dental disease add to the demands on the delivery system to provide access and ensure quality for uniformed personnel. Evidence-based dentistry is the conscientious, explicit, and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients. An evidence-based practice combines individual clinical expertise with the best external evidence available from systematic review of research findings. It provides a scientific basis for patient care, planning and implementation of health services, and development of health policy. Practice guidelines formulated on scientific evidence can reduce variations in the diagnosis and treatment of various dental conditions. A risk assessment protocol for treating dental caries can reduce operative dental treatment recommended at the initial examination and decrease the need for restorative care during a military career.