Methods: We searched eight electronic databases, using a broad search strategy combined with filters to identify new systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses published in 2006. The search was restricted to the English language. In addition, we reviewed the electronic table of contents of journals that had published systematic reviews included in the OHSL.
Results: The search identified a total of 663 papers of which 537 were excluded at title/abstract review (these included references from the Cochrane Library and DARE [Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects] which are added to the OHSL on publication). 125 papers were identified as potential systematic reviews and reviewed in full text (one paper could not be obtained). Of these references, only 38 provided sufficient methodological information to meet the quality criteria for inclusion in the OHSL.
Conclusions: The Oral Health Specialist Library has identified a significant number of newly published systematic reviews and meta-analyses in addition to those found in the Cochrane Library or other evidence-based collections. However, less than a third of the papers identified met pre-defined quality criteria for inclusion in the Library. Authors need to provide sufficient information to establish the methodological validity of their research.