The Impact of COVID-19 on the Addiction Field: A Call to Dentists-Recording Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this webinar, Dr. Wilson Compton, Deputy Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the addiction field and provides guidance for dentists on addressing addiction issues in their practice. He highlights the increase in overdose deaths during the pandemic, particularly related to opioids and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Dr. Compton emphasizes the importance of proper prescribing practices and reducing the use of opioids when possible, as well as the need for dentists to be aware of substance misuse in their patients and refer them for appropriate treatment. He also discusses the role of dentists in reducing stigma around addiction and the resources available from NIDA to support dental providers in addressing addiction in their practice. Dr. Compton concludes by mentioning ongoing research efforts, such as the HEAL initiative, aimed at developing new treatments for opioid use disorder and improving pain management without opioids. Overall, the webinar provides important information and guidance for dentists on addressing addiction issues in their practice.

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Keywords

webinar

Dr. Wilson Compton

COVID-19 impact

dentists

overdose deaths

opioids

substance misuse

treatment referral

NIDA resources