Conclusion

Educating dental professionals about family violence increases the likelihood they will screen for abuse and appropriately intervene when necessary. Such a response can have a profound impact on the lives of patients who are victims.

To familiarize dental professionals with their role in responding to family violence, it is strongly recommended that training be integrated into dental schools and dental hygiene programs across the country. National and state dental associations can periodically include violence prevention and intervention topics on their conference agendas. Local, state, and national coalitions that address family violence can also educate community service providers about the role of dental professionals and invite dental professionals to participate in related training programs and initiatives for developing a coordinated response.

The University of Minnesota’s project, Family Violence: An Intervention Model for Dental Professionals, is a useful training tool for increasing awareness of the complex problem of family violence and promoting a proactive response by dental professionals.