Training Experiences regarding Pain Management, Addiction, and Drug Diversion of Dentists Enrolled in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to describe dentists’ training experiences relevant to pain management, addiction, and prescription opioid drug diversion and examine associations between these training experiences and dentists’ opioid prescribing practices. Methods: A web-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among practicing dentist members of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN; N=822). The survey assessed pain management prescribing practices and training experiences related to pain management and assessment for addiction and drug diversion. Survey data were linked with National Dental PBRN Enrollment Questionnaire data regarding practitioner demographics and practice characteristics. Results: The majority of dentists (67%) reported prior training in pain management; however, a minority of dentists reported prior training regarding identification and assessment of drug abuse or addiction (48%) or identification of prescription drug diversion (25%). The majority of training experiences across all topics occurred through continuing dental education participation. Dental school training relevant to pain management, addiction, and identification of drug diversion was more prevalent among more-recent dental school graduates. Training experiences were associated with prescribing practices. Conclusions: Results suggest that across multiple levels of training, many dentists are not receiving training specific to addiction assessment and identification of drug diversion. Such training is associated with greater consistency of risk mitigation implementation in practice.

Serious opioid-related adverse outcomes associated with opioids prescribed by dentists

“…In addition, dentists may require further training in identifying and assessing drug abuse and SUD while ensuring safe and effective pain management. 24 As found in other studies, dental visits in the South had the highest opioid prescribing rates, followed by the Midwestern region. 19 The risk of persistent opioid use and adverse outcomes was also highest for the South and Midwest compared with other regions in the United States.…”

“…In addition, dentists may require further training in identifying and assessing drug abuse and SUD while ensuring safe and effective pain management. 24…”

A Dental School Survey Assessing Dental Student Knowledge, Attitudes and Prescribing Behavior Regarding Opioid Use and Abuse

“…However, recent studies suggest dental practitioners do not always align with proposed guidelines for opioid prescribing [15]. Among the reasons given are insufficient information, inconsistent guidelines, and lack of training and education on the risks of addiction and diversion [16,17].…”