Th6019 - Beyond the Smile: Understanding the Impact of Substance Use on Patient Health
Date/Time: 3/20/2025 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Type: Lectures Handouts: Speaker bringing
Dentist Fee: $105.00 Other Fee: $75.00
Audience: Dentists, Hygienists, Assistants, Office Staff, Lab techs, Spouses, Students
Keyword(s): Health and Wellness/Nutrition
Substance use disorder affects 10-15% of U.S. adults, with many more misusing substances going unnoticed. Dental professionals, often spending significant time with patients, are in a unique position to screen and support patients, serving as the first line of defense. This course will help attendees recognize substance use disorder as a treatable medical condition and develop alternative therapies to opioids for pain control. We will discuss how this disorder progresses, the physical and psychological changes that occur, and how to communicate effectively about substance use disorder.