Depression: Special Considerations for the Dental Setting

Abstract The 1-year prevalence rate for depression is 9.5%, or approximately 20.9 million adults in America. The lifetime prevalence of major depressive disorder is approximately 10%-25%. It is highly likely that dental students and practicing dentists will encounter patients with depression. Depression and the psychopharmacological treatment of depression have significant oral health impacts. Practicing dentists should be aware of the special needs of these patients in order to properly plan and execute treatment. Depression is frequently left untreated or poorly treated. If untreated, depression can lead to significant functional impairments in the patient's life or even premature death. Dentists are in a unique position to recognize developing signs of depression and to make appropriate mental health referrals. The specific aim of this resource is to increase awareness of depressive symptoms, impacts on oral health, treatments for depression, and how to make appropriate referrals. The resource also encourages dental professionals to explore their own beliefs about depression in order to facilitate communication with patients and promote patient health. The resource contains a PowerPoint presentation with a script, a discussion guide, resource list, and instructor's guide. The PowerPoint takes about 35 minutes to present, and individual discussion points need from 5–10 minutes each. Recommended readings require approximately 20 minutes outside of class. The material can be presented in a face-to-face class or in an online or partially online course