77 - Trauma-Informed Dentistry for Patients who have been Trafficked

Abstract:

Objective: The purpose of this abstract is to describe a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach to dentistry. Patients’ trauma may affect how they respond to dental services, and many providers lack knowledge of how to use a trauma-informed approach when treating human trafficking victims. Sharing lessons learned from Texas A&M School of Dentistry’s work with this patient population can offer a roadmap for other dentists.

Methods: The authors use their first-hand experiences delivering care to victims of trafficking in Dallas, Texas to outline ways to apply trauma-informed care in an academic-community clinical partnership. A trauma-informed approach to dentistry starts with acknowledging the emotional, social, and physical impact of trauma on the individual patient. Dental teams complete several steps to prepare before offering treatment to victims of human trafficking. During the patients’ appointments, trauma-informed adaptations are made to standard protocols. Adjustments and accommodations to follow up care are also necessary.

Results: Nationwide, an estimated 26.5% of human trafficking survivors surveyed report visiting a dentist. This statistic indicates that dental providers can play a critical role in interrupting the cycle of human trafficking, especially since many victims have suffered physical injuries to the head and neck, including their teeth and jaws. Results from Dallas, TX show that providing trauma-informed dentistry increases the quality of both treatment and patient outcomes.

Conclusions: Dental teams are uniquely positioned to support trafficking victims. Effective, trauma-informed dental care can support victims in their transition into society, finding work, and ultimately freeing themselves from their perpetrators.

Source of Funding: None