Dean reported opioid and pain management curriculum in US dental schools

Dental students learn to prescribe pain management medications in dental school, including opioids. Given the current state of opioid-related morbidity and mortality in the US, dental schools should evaluate the context and implementation of opioid prescribing in their dental school clinics (DSCs).

A nationwide survey of deans of clinical operations at all US dental schools was conducted in 2020 related to pain management in their DSC. The Michigan Medicine Institutional Review Board deemed this study unregulated (HUM00151607).

Of the 68 accredited dental schools in the United States, 26 deans of DSCs responded to the survey, yielding a 40% response rate. The survey results showed differences in the levels of education for dental students on opioid prescribing and patient education requirements. A comprehensive curriculum regarding safe opioid prescribing and patient education training was reported by 12 schools. Four dental programs did not have a single guideline or policy in relation to opioids for their dental students.

The implementation of opioid prescribing guidelines and the surrounding context are different among DSCs, which could result in knowledge gaps and confusion for novice providers. Although many dental programs provide extensive opioid safety training, there is room for improvement and standardization to further advance patient care.