Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan are leading a study to help dentists recognize signs of domestic violence and learn how to respond.
“At the end of the process, we want to create something that is approachable and will be disseminated on socials and online platforms,” Dr. Liran Levin, a periodontist and researcher at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Dentistry, told MooseJaw Today on Nov. 8. “The idea is to create something that can be broadly disseminated to dental professionals and to the public to make it accessible.”
Related: Dentistry’s role in recognizing and reporting abuse
Levin is working with dentist and master’s student Ana Cantao, who first developed the idea while treating survivors of domestic abuse in Brazil. Their project explores how oral and facial injuries, along with patient behaviour, can signal possible abuse — and how dentists can intervene safely and appropriately.
Cantao said this topic is often not included in dental school curricula because of its sensitivity.
The study’s findings will inform practical guides and multimedia resources, including animations and online materials for dental programs.
Those interested in participating can contact Ana Cantao at ab.cantao@usask.ca. Participants must be 18 or older, self-identify as survivors of domestic or familial abuse, and be willing to take part in a confidential 25-minute interview.