The Role of Evidence-Based Dentistry in Shaping the Curriculum of Contemporary Dental Schools in the United States

Abstract

Evidence-based dentistry (EBD) integrates the best available scientific evidence with clinical expertise and patient values and has become a cornerstone of contemporary dental practice [1–3]. In the United States, evolving accreditation standards, rapid scientific advances, and increasing emphasis on accountability in health professions education have driven substantial curricular reform. This narrative review examines the role of EBD in shaping the structure, content, and pedagogy of contemporary U.S. dental school curricula. A structured literature review identified key domains in which EBD informs curriculum design, including biomedical foundations, critical appraisal skills, clinical decision-making, interprofessional education, and assessment strategies. Longitudinal integration of EBD enhances analytical thinking, supports lifelong learning, and aligns dental education with modern standards of care.