Evidence in oral health promotion-implications for oral health planning.

Abstract

I have explored the debates on evidence-based oral health promotion and examined the practicality of promoting oral health care within a whole system (social, cultural, and environmental) approach. The use of evidence-based decision-making in health services and planning is a viable mechanism to identify optimal health benefits; however, barriers to the effective adoption of evidence-based health practice, including barriers that apply to oral health promotion, have been identified. Evidence-based oral health promotion highlights the importance of examining health promotion activities within a defined social context-a departure from the focus on improving study designs and research methods. Thus, the basis for evidence in health activities is grounded in social and organizational systems. This could contribute to sustainable health efforts.