Treating Between the Lines: Understanding Rx and Illicit Drug Abuse (BODEX)

Saturday, 8:30am - 11:30am
Classroom:  Solana A&B
Meets BODEX requirement for Chemical Dependency

Substance abuse is at an all-time "high" in this country, with an estimated 1 out of every 7 Americans addicted to prescription or illicit drugs. As dental professionals, we must awaken to the reality that many of our patients have substance-use disorders and that our examination findings of advanced caries, severe hyposalivation, and poor plaque control are often the effects of depressant, stimulant, and opioid abuse. Learn how to recognize the clues of substance abuse from a routine dental examination, discuss your concerns and suspicions with patients, and use evidence-based practices for dental pain management. *Note: Course content does not include marijuana

Learning Objectives:
Participants will learn:
• How to identify the three categories of drugs (opioids, depressants, and stimulants) most abused by patients
• How to recognize the physical, behavioral, and oral clues of substance misuse during a routine dental examination
• How to discuss substance misuse with patients using motivational-interviewing techniques
• Office policies that safeguard both patients and practices
• Evidence-based practices for managing dental pain