Researchers from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) School of Dentistry have received funding to study how exposure to violence affects dental care use from adolescence to adulthood.
It is believed to be the first study to examine how long-term community violence impacts dental care use over a lifetime, according to a press release from the university dated January 29.
"By understanding how violence affects dental care utilization, we can refine the care offered and make a positive impact on the health of some of our most vulnerable populations," Dr. Peter M. Loomer, PhD, MBA, dean and professor at the UT Health San Antonio's School of Dentistry and director of the Center for Global and Community Oral Health, said in the release.
Childhood and interpersonal violence may negatively impact dental care use, but little is known about the effects of communitywide violence. As awareness of the link between dental and overall health grows, new studies are emerging. Despite its importance, nearly 40% of American adults go without a dental visit each year, according to the release.
To explore the link between exposure to violence and dental care use from adolescence to adulthood, the research team will analyze three long-term datasets. Also, they will examine whether community violence affects dental care access from childhood to young adulthood and how factors like race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status play a role.
Following this study, which is being funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the next step will be to develop a clinical trial and expand research through a practice-based network. The team aims to create a counseling program to help dental practitioners address the effects of violence on oral health. A previously developed five-step program may be adapted to counsel patients, making violence screening and resource referrals a routine part of dental care, according to the release.
"Community violence exposure is a serious public health issue affecting millions of Americans each year," Alexander Testa, PhD, assistant professor in the department of management, policy, and community health at the university, said in the release. "Understanding its impact on dental care access and use is essential, as it may disrupt preventive care and worsen health disparities."
