Dental Treatment in the Correctional System

Course overview

The challenge for the medical and dental staff of correctional institutions in the United States is to provide basic healthcare and dental treatment amid the multiple needs of the inmate population and within the budgetary limitations of the county, state, and federal government. This basic-level course will highlight the unique environment within the correctional system and the challenges of providing dental care therein. Chemical addiction is common among inmates, and their impact on oral health and dental treatment as well as problems associated with withdrawal and detoxification from alcohol and/or opioid medications, which can cause life-threatening symptoms, will be discussed. The more prevalent medical problems that afflict incarcerated individuals, such as hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS, and their impact on oral health and dental treatment will be reviewed as they relate to total patient care. The course will conclude with a discussion of the multiple elements that can preclude access to adequate medical and dental care upon the release of incarcerated individuals back into society. Ultimately, course participants will develop an appreciation of the medical and dental needs of a population that often goes unnoticed.