Synoptic review on existing and potential sources for bias in dental research methodology with methods on their prevention and remedies

Abstract

The results of years of dental study serve as the foundation for the practise of medicine and, for that matter, dentistry. Doctors may have their own preferences for techniques and materials, but whether directly or indirectly, their decisions are influenced by systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, due to poorly conducted or presented research, this very basic foundation may not be reliable. Bias in research is one of several factors that might make study results or research itself unreliable. Bias can be introduced into research at many stages, deliberately or unknowingly. Bias can appear at any point during the research process, even before the study itself begins. There are many biases in research, but some of them are more relevant to dentistry research than others. Because it is said that “eyes see what the mind knows”, it is essential to have a complete understanding of the different types of bias, how and when they get entrenched, and what steps may be taken to prevent or lessen them if they do occur. This comprehensive summary of bias in dentistry research is provided by this synoptic review. The goal is to identify gaps and measures that have been taken-or that should have been taken-by providing both descriptive and evaluative summaries, as well as examples from the literature, when needed.

Keywords: Dental research; Bias (epidemiology); Research methodology; Research design; Epidemiologic methods

Core Tip: Be it clinical or in-vitro, bias may arise at any point in the course of research. Always make efforts to minimise, if not completely eradicate, any potential bias that could show up in a study. However, how can a researcher take preventative or remedial actions if they are oblivious that bias is being introduced into their study? This article lists and summarises every potential bias that could arise during a study so that the researcher is aware of the possibilities and can take the necessary precautions to contribute reliable scientific data to the literature.