Behavioral Health in Dental Settings: Resources to Support Integration

Abstract

Background: Decades of research evidence has shown that mental health and substance use are impacted by oral health, and that oral health is impacted by mental health and substance use. As our nation experiences alarming increases in mental health and substance use needs, patients in dental settings are increasingly likely to present with such needs, impacting their ability to successfully access oral health services and improve their oral health. Discussion: However, dental providers can leverage existing resources and practices toward best supporting patients’ behavioral health, and, ultimately, their oral health. This article includes concepts, tools, and resources to support dental professionals in developing financially sustainable shifts to move the dial toward integrated oral health and behavioral health care.