CHICAGO (November 1, 2001) -- The dentist mindset-perfectionist, focused and knowledgeable about drugs-may be the single greatest impediment to getting help for a dentist shackled by substance abuse, according to the November 2001 issue of AGD Impact, the monthly news magazine of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Now a growing number of peer assistance programs and treatment centers designed for dentists are proving successful in addressing the unique needs of impaired dentists. They do this by creating a safe, anonymous environment in which dentists can seek help without fear of being punished with loss of prestige, license and livelihood.
While dentists may have a harder time than non-professionals in accepting their substance abuse problem and seeking help, their success rate is significantly higher than the general addicted and alcoholic population once they enter treatment, according to recovering dentists and the professionals who treat them.
According to John Bauman, DDS, chair, Concerned Colorado Dentists, the dentist's ego, medical knowledge, and access to addictive drugs put dentists at particular risk. "There can be an arrogance inherent in the doctor's mindset that says, 'this can't happen to me'," Dr. Bauman said. "That arrogance fuels our denial and makes it virtually impossible to convince us that there is a problem until we hit bottom."
Likewise, the dentist's status of undisputed master of his or her domain creates what many call a conspiracy of silence, in which staff members and colleagues are wary of bringing the addicted or alcoholic dentist's problem to light. With the help of substance abuse professionals and the efforts dentists in recovery, dentistry is acting to break the silence and with it, the chains of addiction that bind as many as 15 percent of practicing dentists in the United States.
Most state dental societies have volunteer programs that help dentists with substance abuse problems. And a number of specialized treatment centers have opened to deal with the unique issues that health care professionals bring to treatment.
The full story Dentists Help Dentists Be Well can be found on the Academy's Web site at www.agd.org. The November issue of AGD Impact examines the role and effectiveness of peer assistance programs and professional treatment centers specifically designed to help dentists heal. It features personal stories of recovery as well as extensive resources to help dentists and those around them recognize the signs of addiction and guide dentists to the help they may need without fear of reprisals. Related articles on stress and wellness round out a package aimed at helping dentists find the personal help they need to succeed and live well in what can be a stressful profession.
CONTACT: Susan Urbanczyk, public information administrator, at 312/440-4308 or [email protected] or Molly Eaton, public information assistant, at 312/440-4341 or [email protected].
