Could access to high quality oral healthcare support recovery from substance use disorder? An evidence-based inquiry

Speaker

Kari Hexem, DMD MPH 

Dr. Kari Hexem is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where she teaches in the public health and practice management courses.  Dr. Hexem’s research has focused on the association between oral and systemic health, medical decision-making, and variation in clinical care across healthcare environments. 

In 2015, Dr. Hexem founded the dental department at Philadelphia FIGHT, which is known for its quality, medical integration, and patient-centered care.  Most recently she served as the organization’s Chief Clinical Officer, leading both Philadelphia FIGHT’s medical and dental departments through a period of organizational change. 

Dr. Hexem holds a DMD from Penn Dental Medicine, a MPH from Oregon Health Sciences University, and a BA in Cultural Anthropology from Reed College.  In 2022, she was recognized with the Penn Dental Medicine LGBTQIA+ Faculty Advocacy Award. 

Disclosure: Dr. Hexem has no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Course Description

In this presentation, Dr. Hexem will share her experiences treating individuals living with substance use disorder (SUD) at Philadelphia FIGHT and the Kirkbride Center and propose a theoretical model for the role of oral healthcare in supporting recovery from SUD. The opioid, fentanyl, and methamphetamine crises in the United States have reinforced the need for all healthcare providers, including oral healthcare providers, to stay up to date regarding advances in addiction medicine, screen for SUD in primary care settings, and remain mindful of opiate prescribing. But what about individuals already struggling? Investments in oral healthcare may support recovery through such pathways as self-esteem and perceived self-efficacy, as well as improved systemic health and increased social engagement and employment options. Dr. Hexem argues that by actively participating in treatment for individuals struggling with SUD, oral health professionals can provide an important area of support.

Educational Objectives

• Discuss recent advances in understanding addiction and the supports to recovery from substance use disorder.
• Review evidence regarding the impact of substance use disorder on oral health.
• Consider how oral healthcare may increase the likelihood of recovery from substance use disorder.
  

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