Basma Tarek Alharthy , Shara Ismail Sajini

Abstract

The dental visits are a potentially valuable opportunity for screening patients with substance misuse and potentially assisting. However, it is not clear if there is a systematic approach in training general dental practitioners to gain competencies for screening and referral in such cases. We surveyed dental interns to learn about their readiness and understand their training on patients with substance misuse disorder. A 21- items questionnaire was formulated and then distributed among dental interns at KAUFD. The participants filled the questionnaire at the start of dental seminars organized by the intern office. A total of 130 interns completed the questionnaire. Drugs were perceived harmful and problematic in the region of 83% of participants. However, 52% of the participants did not believe that crimes were related to drug use. It was believed that most drugs have oral manifestations and dental practitioners should be trained to identify patients with SUD and modify the treatment plan accordingly. Participants believed that screening skills should be introduced to undergraduate students in their 4^th and 5^th years. Dentists reflect the understanding of the importance of addressing substance use however the competencies of screening and referrals are lacking in their training. Dealing with the global issue of drug abuse can be supported by including training as part of the curriculum and educating dental graduates and postgraduates on screening and basic interventions of patients with SUD.