The Opioid Crisis: What Dental Clinicians Should Know

COURSE SUMMARY:  This is a free dental continuing education course hosted by Dental CE Academy

Dentists have been identified as among the leading prescribers of opioids. Used to alleviate pain, dental clinicians have commonly prescribed opioids after tooth extractions or surgical procedures. In particular, the removal of third molars, most routinely performed during the teen years, has received significant focus since dentists were reported to be the highest prescribers of opioids for this vulnerable age group. – ADEA

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

• Understand the scope of the Opioid Problem
• Describe the role of the dental clinician in reducing opioid prescribing
• Review prescribing recommendations
• Discuss strategies to reduce opioid abuse