|
Abstract
|
Dentistry responding to domestic violence and abuse: a dental, practice-based intervention and a feasibility study for a cluster randomised trial.Br Dent J 2022; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-5271-x
Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) can occur in the form of physical violence, sexual abuse, financial abuse, psychological abuse and/or controlling behaviour between individuals in intimate relationships or family members. There are approximately 15.4 million incidents of DVA annually in the UK, which can have short- and long-term consequences for an individual's physical and mental health. COVID-19 has highlighted an increase in DVA due to household isolation.
Dental health care professionals have a paramount role to play in handling DVA, as studies show 65-95% of assaults involve trauma to the face, mouth and teeth. As a result, dental personnel are in a unique position to recognise, document and refer DVA for appropriate assistance.
Currently, there are policy frameworks and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence quality standards on DVA which mention that healthcare professionals should be involved in identification, supporting and referring to specialist advocacy services. Uptake and implementation of these policies and quality standards are low in dental services. Furthermore, there is limited DVA training currently within dentistry and referral pathways...
Language: en |