Integrating Widespread Domestic Violence Education into the Curriculum and Continuing Education of Dental Professionals

Dental professionals are in a unique position to identify and assist domestic violence victims. Data suggests that the majority of female domestic violence victims in emergency care have injuries to the face, head and neck. A 1997 study revealed that dentists and hygienists were the least likely clinical practitioners to identify victims of domestic violence. More than one-half of this population did not view themselves as responsible for dealing with this social issue. A 2001 survey reported that the majority of dentists do not screen for domestic violence nor do they address visible signs of trauma on the face, head and neck. Barriers include limited knowledge and experience, fear of litigation, and lack of information about local referral sources. Third year dental students (n = 76) enrolled in a practice management course attended a domestic violence presentation that resulted in a 30% increase in their reported confidence to identify and question the victim. In a similar continuing education course to hygienists (n= 30) post assessment resulted in a 70% increase in being more knowledgeable about identifying and having an appropriate conversation with the victim. The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry formalized a program to educate students and practitioners. Currently, some dental schools and dental hygiene programs have fragmented information in their curriculum. These authors recommend a unified approach to integrating domestic violence information into educational curriculum. It is also recommended that state dental boards mandate domestic violence continuing education for the relicensure of practitioners.